My backyard backs up to some new town houses, 2 stories tall. I'm looking to add something to create privacy, but not sure what to get. I was thinking some crape mrytles, since they can grow fairly tall and wide and are nice to look at. The problem is, I have a big pecan tree in the back that will block almost all the sun. Anything planted there will probably get full sun from about 11-2. I don't think that's enough for crape mrytles, especially if I want them to grow big and fast.
I'm now thinking about bamboo. I know there's some issue with planting bamboo, seeing how it's a grass and can spread like crazy. I read there are 2 kinda, clumping and running. Running, from my understanding, is the one that gives you the issue of spreading quickly and out of control. Clumping, however, might not be the best for a privacy screen. I know I can put some sort of barrier around where I don't want the running bamboo to go, but that's going to take alot of time and effort and money to dig up 3 feet of dirt, 2 feet wide, and probably 25 yards long!
Any suggestions on the bamboo, or other good privacy screens that can handle direct sun for only a few hours, and indirect for a few more?
Hello makushr1. Ken here in the Chicago area. Welcome to the Forum.
Most clumping bamboos are tropical or sub-tropical. Since you live in Houston,
that shouldn’t be a problem. They are hardy from 15-32*F. They grow to
15-35 feet tall. They also can take part shade. Check out the Sunset Western Garden Book
for a whole page listing of clumping bamboos. Good luck and take care.
Most clumping bamboos are tropical or sub-tropical. Since you live in Houston,
that shouldn’t be a problem. They are hardy from 15-32*F. They grow to
15-35 feet tall. They also can take part shade. Check out the Sunset Western Garden Book
for a whole page listing of clumping bamboos. Good luck and take care.
