Planning Your Project
Everything you need to know before installing a bamboo privacy hedge.
Choosing a Species
Running vs. Clumping Bamboo
The first decision is whether to use running or clumping bamboo. Both work beautifully for privacy hedges, but they behave differently and have distinctly different forms.
Running bamboo grows with a tall, upright form and spreads via underground rhizomes. It requires barrier installation to contain it. However, running bamboo typically grows taller and fills in faster, making it ideal for tall screens.
Popular species: Spectabilis, Yellow Groove, Hedge, Temple
Clumping bamboo has a graceful, weeping form and stays in a tight clump, expanding slowly outward. No barrier required, but it generally doesn't grow as tall as running varieties.
Popular species: Alphonse Karr, Weavers, Buddha's Belly, Tibetan Princess
Height Considerations
How tall do you need your screen? Choose based on what you're screening:
- One-story house (8-10'): Arrow, Shiroshima
- Two-story house (10-25'): Yellow Groove, Hedge
- Three-story+ house (40-70'): Vivax
Climate & Location
Most bamboo does well in the Bay Area's mild climate. Key considerations:
- Full sun produces the best growth
- Some species tolerate partial or full shade
- Some species are better with high wind or cold
- Some handle coastal salt spray
We'll help you choose the right species during your consultation.
Barrier & Containment
For running bamboo, we install rhizome barrier to keep your hedge where you want it. This is non-negotiable — we won't install running bamboo without proper containment.
What We Use
- 30" deep polyethylene barrier
- 0.06" thick (60 mil) — heavy duty
- Installed with 2" above grade to catch surface runners
- Seams overlapped and secured
Why 30" deep? Bamboo rhizomes typically travel in the top 12-18 inches of soil. Our 30" barrier provides a generous safety margin and handles even aggressive runners.
Planter Boxes
For decks, patios, and rooftops, we build custom planter boxes lined with barrier. This gives you complete control over where the bamboo grows while adding an attractive structural element.
Installation Options & Pricing
In-Ground Hedge — $499/linear foot
Our most popular option. We excavate a trench, install barrier, amend the soil, and plant alternating 15- and 25-gallon plants on 3-foot centers. You get immediate height (8-30 feet depending on species) and full density within 2-3 years.
Includes barrier, plants, 3-month warranty. 12' minimum.
Pressure-Treated Planter Boxes — $599/linear foot
Custom-built on site with pressure-treated lumber for an economical option. Ideal for patios, decks, and rooftops where in-ground planting isn't possible. Includes barrier lining, soil, and plants.
Custom-built, includes barrier lining, soil, 15-gal plants, warranty. 12' total (can be multiple boxes).
Redwood Planter Boxes — $699/linear foot
Same construction as pressure-treated but with quality redwood lumber for a premium look. Just as functional, with a beautiful natural aesthetic.
Same as PT with quality redwood lumber. 12' total.
Terracotta Pots — $1,995/pot + delivery
Oversized terracotta pots with bamboo make stunning statement pieces. Best for accent plantings rather than continuous screening.
Includes (2) 15-gallon plants, soil, delivery.
Annual maintenance, health checks, and replacement coverage for ongoing peace of mind.
Warranty
Every installation includes a 3-month warranty on plants and barrier. Here's what's covered:
- Replacement of any plant that dies during the warranty term
- Inspection, repair, or replacement of barrier that fails
- One Thin & Trim maintenance visit included
Your Responsibilities
- Water regularly — especially in the first year (several times per week in summer)
- Report any plant distress promptly
- Do not move or remove plants from original installation
- Control gophers (they love bamboo roots)
Extended Warranty
For ongoing peace of mind, our Extended Warranty ($79/linear foot/year) includes:
- Extended plant and barrier coverage
- Annual Thin & Trim maintenance
- Health evaluations and watering assessment
- Fertilizer application
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until I have full privacy?
You'll have significant screening immediately after installation (plants are 8-30 feet tall). Full density typically develops within 2-3 growing seasons.
Will bamboo damage my foundation or fence?
With proper barrier installation, no. The barrier contains the rhizomes and prevents them from spreading where you don't want them. We've installed hundreds of hedges near structures without issues.
How much maintenance is required?
Minimal once established. Water regularly the first year, then bamboo is quite drought-tolerant. Annual thinning keeps the hedge looking its best and promotes new growth.
Can I plant bamboo myself?
You can purchase plants from us and install them yourself. However, proper barrier installation is critical for running bamboo — if you're not experienced, we strongly recommend professional installation.
What's the best time of year to plant?
We install year-round in the Bay Area. Spring and fall are ideal, but bamboo establishes well any time as long as it's watered properly.
Do you service my area?
We serve the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Delivery and travel fees may apply depending on location. Contact us for specifics.
Ready to Get Started?
Free consultations. We'll visit your property and provide a detailed estimate.