Bamboo can be grown in pots as well as in the ground. They can make great ornaments for a balcony or courtyard without the need to have a garden bed. People have also used planter boxes to create a bamboo screen.
Choosing the right pot for your bamboo is just as important as choosing the right bamboo for your situation. Bamboo is quite shallow rooted so would prefer a shallow pot. This can also aid in keeping the bamboo and the pot more stable. With a shallow pot the weight is lower so will be more stable in higher winds.
If you are using the bamboo in the pot to provide a little privacy then a running bamboo may be better. Running bamboo seems to grow higher in a pot than a clumping type of bamboo. We can always assist you to decide the best type of bamboo for your situation.
As with most plants in pots, bamboo will eventually become root bound. Like you need to do with other plants, you will need to either re-pot the bamboo into a larger pot or divide the bamboo. This will need to be done approximately every 4-5 years depending on the bamboo chosen. The quicker the bamboo grows (which is great for your privacy) the quicker it will become root bound. Don't forget to put your bamboo into your pot plant watering regime. Bamboo need to keep moist so water on a regular basis.
As with any bamboo situation, if you are unsure about the type of bamboo that is appropriate for your situation then either email us at info@bamboo-plants.com.au or give us a call on 1300 654 454.