Hey everyone! I recently received some bamboo seeds as a gift, and I'm really considering planting them along our back fences. We live in a one-story neighborhood, but the apartments behind us just went up to two stories with huge sliding glass doors that overlook our yards, and it's incredibly frustrating. The builders promised no second stories, but here we are, facing unwanted views and random litter from the new tenants! We want to use the bamboo as a privacy screen to block their view, but I'm looking for tips and alternatives. We're in zone 7 in the Pacific Northwest, and we deal with extreme temperatures—over 100 degrees in the summer and freezing in the winter. Has anyone dealt with this before? Any advice would really help us out!
4 Answers
Planting bamboo can be a great idea for a privacy screen, but make sure to set up a solid root barrier deeper than recommended. Bamboo can spread quickly if not contained! Also, consider adding some vertical shades or sails for extra privacy while you wait for your bamboo to grow. It might help keep the neighbors' trash from blowing into your yard, too!
We found a decent sun shade that helps keep the junk off our yard. It provides some shade too, but they still manage to toss things over. The shade has been a lifesaver though!
Go for it! Bamboo can be an awesome solution to your privacy issue!
Honestly, I typically wouldn’t recommend running bamboo because it can be really invasive. But considering your situation, it might be your best option! Just be prepared to manage it closely.
Bamboo is great, but it can take over your yard if you don't keep it in check. Maybe consider other plants that could provide privacy without so much maintenance? It might be less stressful in the long run.
If you have any alternative plant suggestions, I’m all ears! Otherwise, we might just go ahead with the bamboo.
Totally agree! I'd love to help you find other options too if you need.

Great tips! I’m planning to dig a trough and line it, but I’m unsure about the best type of liner. What do you use for your barrier?