They are best dug while dormant, in February, cleanly severed and protected from dehydration. After planting them to their original depth in a bed of compost mixed with soil, they should be well mulched, and watered regularly. New shoots are left alone for three years. Then, selective thinning will hasten the development of full-size culms. This process can take five to ten years, as the rhizome grows and is able to support larger shoots and culms.
Many bamboos are rapid spreaders and can become invasive.
Proper site selection is important. Bamboo generally spreads downhill. Water, marshes and rock provide natural containment. Continual harvest of shoots or tilling discourages spread. In small plantings, rhizomes can be checked by burying fiberglass, concrete, or galvanized metal sheeting two or more feet deep, extending about a foot above ground.