Overwintering guide
How to overwinter buddha's belly bamboo
Winter watering
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
The mistake that kills buddha's belly bamboo in winter
Bringing buddha's belly bamboo into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.
More buddha's belly bamboo care
Overwintering buddha's belly bamboo — FAQ
Does buddha's belly bamboo need to come indoors for winter?
Buddha's Belly Bamboo is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Buddha's Belly Bamboo will take cool conditions but not a hard freeze, so the aim is a frost-free winter rather than a warm one. An unheated greenhouse, porch, conservatory or bright garage all work well. Keep it cool, bright and on the dry side, and it will hold steady until growth restarts in spring.
When should I move buddha's belly bamboo for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water buddha's belly bamboo in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills buddha's belly bamboo over winter?
Bringing buddha's belly bamboo into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.