Bamboos are usually valuable ornamental plants. However, if not kept under control some bamboos can become invasive garden weeds – particularly the types that spread by

Rhizomes are creeping swollen root-like structures that are actually adapted stems. Roots, stems with leaves and flowers are produced along its length. See plants such as Anemone nemorosa, bamboo, canna, border iris.

While bamboos are usually a good, ornamental plant, here are some of the problems encountered:

• Bamboo shoots may pop up anywhere in the garden: neighbouring land or even through solid barriers, such as in patios and conservatory floors. Most weed-suppressant groundcover fabrics will not stop bamboo spreading
• The problem tends to be with the invasive types of bamboo. These bamboos spread via long rhizomes, which help the plant to colonise new areas
• The clump forming bamboos can also grow out of control, but do not tend to spread as much as the running bamboos

If you have a bamboo that has got out of hand, you may want to bring it back under control, or just want to eradicate it completely. Complete eradication will take time and patience.

Cultural control

• Non-chemical methods involve digging out clumps of bamboo and restricting the size. This can be difficult with very large plants, or on heavy soil. Use a sharp spade to dig up the entire clump or to remove sections from the edge of the clump that have grown beyond the limits. Sever the rhizomes as you go, lifting and removing them with a fork or trowel. 
• If you wish to keep the plant, consider planting it inside a physical barrier (see the 'Planting' section of the bamboo profile for more information on physical barriers).

Weedkiller control

The RHS believes that avoiding pests, diseases and weeds by good practice in cultivation methods, cultivar selection, garden hygiene and encouraging or introducing natural enemies, should be the first line of control. If chemical controls are used, they should be used only in a minimal and highly targeted manner.

The RHS does not support the use of weedkillers and recommends that alternative control methods are used. However, when invasive plants are a threat to biodiversity and gardeners struggle to control them with cultural methods, targeted use of regulated weedkillers may be an option. Garden centres and large retailers selling weedkillers have trained staff who can advise on suitable products for your needs.