"Rupert (W.Yorkshire)" wrote in message
...

"Welsh Witch" wrote in message
news
On Mon, 18 Dec 2006 19:10:24 +0100, Emery Davis wrote:

On Mon, 18 Dec 2006 16:47:26 GMT
"MikeCT" wrote:


"Emery Davis" asked:

What are the moisture requirements for Phyllostachys nigra? Any
particular soil issues? And it really clumps and doesn't spread?
---
P. nigra, as do most other bamboo varieties, won't do well in soil that
is
constantly too wet or too dry . It usually is compact, and
apart from cutting down the old branches requires very little
maintenance.
They all prefer lots of organic matter, not too well matured. You don't
need
to clear away the old leaves as these add perfectly to the natural
ground
compost. Bamboos thrive in a full sun aspect but will also tolerate
semi
shade.


Thanks, I will probably give this a try. Looks very nice.

-E
Thank you everyone for your suggestions. I think I will plant small ones
in front and give them some nice food:-)
**********************************

How about planting Yew in the holes-they are fairly fast growing and won't
mind the shade of the hedge. Given time you can remove the odd Leylandii
and end up with a hedge that will take no end of hacking and always
regenerate. Several types of Yew to choose from but I think the ordinary
dark green one is the fastest-particularly if fed.


You can't go wrong with Yew!
They are native; easy to keep neat; last for 1000 years if you ignore them;
make amazing stately topiary or hedging if you are that way inclined.