by Betty Johnson

Created on: April 16, 2011

Bamboo plants can add so much of a tropical flair to any garden. These can be planted directly in the ground or you may choose to plant a few in large decorative pots, arranging them at the corners of your garden. Once they have outgrown the pots you can transplant them directly into your garden.   Dwarf bamboo plants make a lovely ground cover as many varieties grow close to the ground. The 'mini' dwarf is great for ground cover as it grows very aggressively. Maximum height is only one inch, which makes it perfect for edging (but you will have to keep it trimmed back as it spreads rather quickly)  The Sasa nipponica 'Ward' makes an excellent container plant, growing to a height of 2' tall with beautiful leaves that develop a lovely cream and tan color edge in the autumn. 

 
There are so many uses for bamboo, other than plants and garden borders. Not to be overlooked are the lovely bamboo wind-chimes that emit such a lovely, almost African, tone- much different than the usual bell-like sounds we find in the  metal or glass wind-chimes. This is also something you can make yourself, using several different lengths and widths of bamboo for many delightful tones, and of course, they can readily be found in most stores that sell gardening decorations.
 
If your garden should happen to have a small decorative stream running through it, you might consider a small bamboo 'spanning bridge' for crossing it- Bamboo has been used for centuries in the making of small bridges, again, adding that tropical flair that you are looking for.
 
Bamboo trellises for your roses or climbing vines might be another consideration for your garden. Much more exotic than the usual metal or wood slat trellises; and again, it is a simple do-it-yourself project, or they can be purchased in many gardening centers in stationary or expandable styles. These will certainly enhance your roses or climbing vines. They are also lovely when used as a privacy fence, perhaps at one end of your garden.
 
Not to be overlooked, when we are thinking 'bamboo' and 'tropical', any garden will certainly brighten up with several well-placed tiki bamboo torches. These come in several styles; there are those that burn lamp oils or Citronella Oils (giving the lamp a duel purpose) and are so lovely in the evening hours, with the flames burning, or you may prefer the faux bamboo torch lights that are solar powered, burning at night from sunlight gathered in the day light hours. Either choice, several well- placed bamboo tiki torches will add so much atmosphere to your garden.
 
There are also some beautiful bamboo benches that can be purchased, or if you are handy, they can be simply made. A couple of these bamboo benches and perhaps a couple of small bamboo side tables placed close to your garden, will give you a delightful place to rest as you enjoy your lovely bamboo garden.

Learn more about this author, Betty Johnson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.