Fargesia rusty is classified as a bamboo. Despite such an exotic origin, it finds itself very well in our climate. Its cultivation does not require complicated measures.
Bamboos are remarkable plants distinguished by their many uses. In exotic countries they are often used not only for food, but also for building purposes. In Europe, on the other hand, bamboos are grown as ornamental plants. Some species, including fargesia, are even characterized by resistance to high frosts.
Fargesia rusty – brief characteristics
Fargesia rusty (Fargesia rufa) is one of the best-known bamboos. It belongs to the panicle family (Poaceae). Its height reaches up to 3-4 m, but it can be shortened at will.
The leaves of fargesia are small, lanceolate, distinguished by their juicy green color. Their edges curve slightly upward. The plant is classified as a clumping bamboo, as it has short rhizomes and does not produce decomposers. Importantly, it is not expansive, so it does not require root barriers. It grows quickly, forming large clumps with either an erect or spreading habit, which can bring to mind dense green walls.
Other species of fargesia can also be grown in gardens, such as:
- Giant fargesia (Fargesia robusta) – in the wild it reaches a larger size than rust fargesia,
- Red bamboo (Fargesia Jiuzhaigou) – with red, maroon or reddish-purple stems,
- Rough Fargesia (Fargesia scabrida) – with colorful stems, such as orange,
- Umbrella fargesia (Fargesia murielae) – with dark green young shoots that turn olive in color over time.
Basic requirements of russet fargesia
As for bamboos, fargesias are not very demanding in cultivation, especially when it comes to temperature. They can easily cope with Polish climatic conditions and can withstand even frosts that reach temperatures below -20°C. Winds are a greater threat to them, so for fargesia we should choose secluded and sheltered positions, not in direct sunlight. They grow best in partial shade, but can also cope in the shade.
They prefer fertile, humus, permeable and nutrient-rich soil. They are badly affected by water lingering around their roots (this reduces frost resistance), but they also do not like drought. Instead, they are favored by increased humidity. The optimal reaction of the substrate should oscillate between neutral and slightly acidic.
Cultivation and care of rust fargesia
Cultivation of bamboos is not difficult, but a few rules should be kept in mind. Plants with a formed root ball can be planted all year round, but it is best to do it in the spring, so that fargesias have time to acclimatize and increase resistance to negative temperatures.
Bamboos are not planted too deep, and the distance between plants depends on the application. Fargesias, which are to create a wall, are planted every 70-100 cm. If you want loose-growing bamboos, leave at least 3 m of space.
During the dry season, we must take care of regular irrigation so that the soil is constantly moderately moist. In April we can apply nitrogen fertilizer to the plants, in June or July we can apply phosphorus-potassium fertilizer. Fargesia does not need to be pruned regularly, although it can be done to maintain the right height, preferably in May or late summer.
main photo: pixabay.com/markusspiske
