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Why planting bamboo and other aggressive plants can cause serious problems

Adding bamboo to your garden might seem like a good idea. It looks nice and doesn't seem like it needs much care. However, planting it directly in the ground can lead to big, expensive problems.

Even though many people like bamboo because it grows quickly and can create privacy, it's actually a very invasive plant. This means it can spread out of control really fast, growing beyond where you planted it. It can even sneak into your neighbours' gardens and other properties.

When you plant bamboo right into the ground without putting something around its roots to stop them, you'll get a lot of issues. Bamboo has these special roots called rhizomes, and they're very sneaky. They can travel sideways for many feet underground, even going under fences and popping up in your neighbour's garden!

This underground spreading can cause a lot of problems:

• It can mess up your house and garden: These roots are strong enough to damage things like the base of your house foundations, your patio, and even your water pipes.

• It can cause problems with neighbours: When bamboo invades your neighbour's garden, it can lead to big disagreements and even legal problems.

• It's hard and costly to get rid of: Once bamboo gets comfortable in its new spot, it's incredibly difficult and expensive to remove.

Even types of bamboo that are supposed to "clump" together and not spread much can surprise you and grow more than you expect over time. Because bamboo grows so fast and is so tough, getting rid of it often means you'll need to hire professionals, and sometimes they even have to dig up the ground to get rid of it all!

Other aggressive plants to avoid

In the UK, several other plants are known to be invasive and problematic if not carefully managed. These include:

• Japanese Knotweed – It can grow through concrete and house foundations, causing serious damage that costs a lot to fix. It can even make your home lose value if it's found on your property.

• Himalayan Balsam – This plant grows quickly near rivers and streams. It spreads so fast that it takes over, stopping other natural UK plants from growing.

• Giant Hogweed – Dangerous to health, as its sap can cause serious skin burns.

For guidance on Japanese Knotweed visit Sutton Council’s website where you will find information on how to report it.

Tenant responsibilities and potential costs

Under the terms of tenancy agreements, tenants are responsible for ensuring that gardens are maintained. Planting invasive species such as bamboo may be considered a breach of these conditions if they are not controlled, maintained and contained appropriately. 

If damage is caused to the property or neighbouring land due to such planting, the cost of removal and repairs may be charged to the tenant. These costs can be high, especially where professional intervention is needed.

A polite reminder to tenants

We kindly ask all tenants not to plant bamboo or other aggressive plant species directly into the ground. 

While we understand the desire to enhance your outdoor space, certain plants can lead to damage and long-term issues for the property and surrounding areas.

If you’re looking to add greenery to your garden, potted plants or non-invasive plants are great alternatives. If you’re unsure whether a plant is suitable, please seek advice and guidance from a professional and carry out some research online before planting.  

Take a look on the RHC website , which will give you information on gardening and advice on which plants would be suitable for your garden.

By taking these precautions, we can all help protect property, the environment, and our neighbours. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.