Finding the right types of plants for your yard isn’t always easy, especially when you want to avoid plants that are invasive and can take over your other plants. Unfortunately, there are certain types of plants that not only have aggressive qualities, but also attract pesky mosquitoes. Since these are two characteristics that no one wants in their garden, it is important to know which plants to avoid altogether to prevent such problems. One such common culprit is running bamboo, which is one of many Invasive garden plants to avoid.
It is important to understand that the general term “bamboo” refers to several species of grasses, which can be further classified into clumping (non-invasive) and running (invasive) forms. When we’re talking about invasive bamboo, we’re referring to the trailing forms that spread quickly through underground rhizomes and take over native vegetation or other plants in your yard. Examples of invasive bamboo species mistakenly planted in yards include golden bamboo and yellow groove bamboo. The invasive qualities alone—running bamboo spreads at an extraordinary rate of about 15 feet per year, and can even damage sheds and buildings through existing cracks—is reason enough. Get rid of bamboo in your yard.
Mosquito-attractive properties of running bamboo
Aside from creating potential problems with other plants and structures, invasive bamboo can create challenges with mosquito control around your property. You can already diligently remove sources of standing water around your yard to help keep mosquitoes away, including pots and planters. However, bamboo is considered a magnet for these pesky insects, as there are cuts inside their stems, which can provide them with the water they need to breed. Depending on how large the plant is, some of these stems may not be easily accessible, so you may be harboring mosquitoes without even realizing it. Removing water from bamboo stalks is also difficult.
Due to its invasive qualities, it is never a good idea to plant walking bamboo in your yard or garden. Although you can technically restrict the spread of bamboo through container planting, doing so does not eliminate the mosquito problem. Given these issues, any potential ornamental value of bamboo is not worth risking. If you have your heart set on bamboo, consider non-invasive species like clumping bamboo or fountain bamboo instead. You can also consider planting separately Plants known to help repel mosquitoes While you’re at it.
