Buddha Belly Bamboo in Ceramic Pot

Bamboo grows in clumps and is non-invasive in China. Stems generate unique fattened stem segments that mimic the roundness of a Buddha’s belly, giving rise to the plant’s popular name, “Buddha’s belly bamboo.” When the plant is stressed, such as from dryness or being root bound in a container, the swelling stem segments become more noticeable. If the new growth is straight and without producing “bellies,” stress it. This is a fast-growing plant ideal for establishing a rapid hedge or adding structure to a newly planted area.

Care Instructions

Plant Feed: Slow release feed in spring.

Watering: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Soil: Fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil.

Basic Care Summary: Place in an area protected from cold, drying winds. Adapts well to a range of soils with excellent drainage.

Watering Instructions

New plants should be watered regularly during the first growing season, depending on rainfall. A one-hour trickle of water should enough. During hot times, thoroughly soaking the ground up to 8″ (20 cm) every few days is preferable to light watering every day. Deep watering promotes roots to develop more profound into the soil, resulting in a more robust plant with greater drought tolerance.

Examine the soil for moisture; dig a tiny hole with your finger or a hand trowel and study the dirt. It’s time to water if the top 2-4″ (5-10cm) of soil is dry.

Planting Instructions

Plant in the spring or early fall to offer plants the best chance of survival. Choose a site where roots may extend, and branches can grow freely. Plants should be spaced far enough away from building foundations, walls, and decks so that the growing foliage does not crowd the structure. Consider whether large trees or bushes will interfere with the roof or electricity lines or whether they will block windows.

To remove the plant from the container, carefully support the plant’s base, tip it sideways, then touch the outside of the pot to release it. Next, rotate the container and continue tapping to remove the dirt until the plant pulls quickly from the pot. It is also possible to remove the container by carefully cutting it down the side.

Place the plant into the hole. If the root ball is covered in burlap cloth, it must now be removed, as well as any rope or wire holding the burlap in place. If the roots are closely packed, use your fingers to gently brush them apart.

Return the dirt to the planting location, tightly compressing it around the root ball. Fill up the hole until the soil line is just below the plant’s base, where the roots begin to flare out from the main stem.