Overwintering guide
How to overwinter female 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 female bamboo in winter
Bringing female 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 female bamboo care
Overwintering female bamboo — FAQ
Does female bamboo need to come indoors for winter?
Female Bamboo is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Female 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 female bamboo for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water female bamboo in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills female bamboo over winter?
Bringing female 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.