Privacy Screens and Hedges using Bamboo

Bamboo screens and hedges can be grown from any kind of bamboo that is as tall or taller than the height you want.  To keep a bamboo down to the size you want simply cut it each year once the new shoots get a bit taller than the rest of the hedge.  Because it will probably get cut regularly and never have really fine form, people often choose inexpensive bamboos.

What type of bamboo do I want for a screen? 

First note whether your screen will be in the sun, or the shade, or in both.  Think about how tall you want your screen to become.  Phyllostachys aurea does very well in the sun.  Its mature height is about 20 feet.  It is a stiffly upright plant with a habit of making branches and leaves close to the ground.  These characteristics give it a great reputation as a screen.  Many others work well, too.  Generally any mature bamboo divisions will work well in the shade.  Make sure, however, that from the start that you get the plants you want as you know that bamboos do not grow fast in the shade as it could takes years for a small start to grow to the size and look you want.

Below are many types of hedges and screens, and even some whimsical topiary things!  Please enjoy the pictures.