Bamboo has frozen and dried up: what to do?

If the bamboo is dried up and looks frozen, it could be natural. Leaves that turn yellow are quite normal in autumn, because the plant sheds part of its foliage by the beginning of winter. However, if this process expands too much, errors in maintenance and location are mostly responsible, which can be reversed by taking appropriate measures.

Table of Contents

causes

The bamboo is an evergreen plant, which is why it keeps its leaves with their bright green color even in winter. Only in the following spring does the plant shed part of its old leaves when the new shoots are formed. In the course of this renewal it is quite normal for the bamboo to appear dry. However, if the leaf fall gets out of hand, this can be an indication that the plant does not feel comfortable in the location or that the care measures are incorrect. The plant does not tolerate too heavy and impermeable plant substrates, as well as extremely shady, cool and windy places. Any damage caused by drought should be recognized and treated in good time, otherwise the entire perennial may die off.

  • Dry damage leads to dead leaves
  • The plant needs a lot of water in all seasons
  • Always water additionally during dry weather conditions
  • Plant the plant early in the year
  • The ideal time is either spring or summer
  • Generally sheds leaves that grow in the shade
  • Important process for the continued rejuvenation of the foliage
  • There is also a high need for nutrients
  • Apply fertilizer periodically during the growing season
  • Pay attention to bright and light-flooded locations
  • Needs light and well drained soil
  • Loosen the compacted earth and mix it with sand
Tip: If the crop is only planted in autumn, then that is usually too late. The bamboo cannot acclimate itself properly and does not form enough fiber roots to survive the winter unscathed.

measures

Most of the bamboo varieties available in this country can also tolerate low temperatures in winter. The local cold therefore usually does not affect the hardy bamboo. However, the cold dryness can cause problems, especially if this winter drought lasts longer. Since the plant thrives as an evergreen plant, moisture also evaporates during the winter months. However, since the bamboo cannot supply itself with water from the solidly frozen ground, it is then damaged by drought. Therefore, the perennial is usually not frozen, but dried up, as the roots gradually die off. In addition, every bamboo generally needs 3 to 5 years to properly settle in the respective location and to take root. Full winter hardiness is only achieved after this period.

  • Mostly winter hardy down to -25 ° C
  • In the frozen ground, water no longer penetrates to the roots
  • Therefore water additionally in winter
  • Use lukewarm irrigation water during longer periods of frost
  • Water even on frost-free winter days
  • Apply larger casting units on extremely sunny days
  • Watering is also important for potted plants
  • Pay attention to good winter protection
  • Cover the soil below the plant
  • Reed mats, bales of straw, fleece or bubble wrap are suitable for this
  • Alternatively, use dry autumn leaves or sticks
  • Tie the plants tightly together in winter

Cut back

Even if the bamboo looks very dry, there is still hope of regeneration, even a heavy leaf fall is quite normal for the plant. Since the perennial is extremely robust, it can survive longer dry periods. To revitalize the plant, pruning is recommended. Often the center of the plant is very dry because it does not get enough light. If the perennial is thinned out regularly, the inside of the plant will also remain green. Even a radical approach is possible when pruning, as new leaves sprout in spring and the plant can once again develop its elegant appearance.

  • Cut off dry, sallow, and brown bamboo stalks
  • Go as deep as possible when cutting
  • In extreme cases, cut back to the ground
  • Use only sharp and disinfected cutting tools
  • Do not squeeze straws unnecessarily to avoid injuries
Tip: In addition, the tips can be shortened a little so that even more light can come into the interior of the plant and sufficient photosynthesis is ensured in all areas.

Conclusion
When the bamboo loses its leaves, it is a completely normal process during the annual growing season. A degeneration when leaves fall can be prevented by sufficient water and fertilizer. Watering must not be forgotten, especially in the winter months, otherwise there will be a winter drought and the plant will look frozen.

Kira Bellingham

I'm a homes writer and editor with more than 20 years' experience in publishing. I have worked across many titles, including Ideal Home and, of course, Homes & Gardens. My day job is as Chief Group Sub Editor across the homes and interiors titles in the group. This has given me broad experience in interiors advice on just about every subject. I'm obsessed with interiors and delighted to be part of the Homes & Gardens team.

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