Question
QUESTION: I have been growing an indoor bamboo plant in my office for the past year. I
believe it is a Indocalamus tessellatus. It has 5 stocks and is over 3 feet tall. It
receives only artificial light. I would like to separate the stalks and replant them.
How would I go about doing this?

ANSWER: Hi Mora,

I am unclear as to what you are trying to do here. Do you simply want to divide the plant into two? Or are you trying to separate each of the five separate shoots? If the latter, why? If I understand what you are trying to accomplish, I may have a better solution for you.

I look forward to our reply.

Regards,
Will Creed



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Will,
My bamboo is thriving, and filling the pot. Since it is doing so well, I would
like to take advantage of what I have and make two potted indoor plants out
of the one.  I have two locations with the same lighting and it would balance
out my office nicely.  I don't care for the idea of buying another just like it
since it certainly seems I should be able to separate and replant.  
Mora

Answer
OK, Mora. Not a problem.

Use a very sharp, sturdy, long knife to slice straight down through the center of the rootball from top to bottom. Don't worry about severing roots and underground rhizomes. Your bamboo is a tough plant and will survive this relatively minor damage.

Each half can then be planted into separate pots that are just big enough to hold them. Fill in the spaces with fresh potting mix and you're good to go.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC