7 Effective Ways to Get Rid of Bamboo in Vancouver, BC

Bamboo may look beautiful and tropical, but once it takes root, it can become one of the most aggressive and invasive plants in Vancouver. Spreading underground through rhizomes, bamboo can quickly invade lawns, garden beds, retaining walls, and even neighboring properties—damaging hardscapes and creating legal disputes.

At Ascent Yard Care, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners, strata councils, and property managers remove and control bamboo across Vancouver. If you’re dealing with a bamboo problem, here are 7 effective ways to get rid of it—safely, strategically, and permanently.

1. 

Cut Bamboo to the Ground and Remove Stalks

The first step is cutting the bamboo to the ground using loppers, shears, or a power trimmer. All stalks should be:

• Cut as close to the soil as possible
• Collected and hauled away
• Not composted—bamboo can re-root if discarded improperly

This exposes the site and allows you to clearly see emerging shoots and rhizomes for further treatment.

2. 

Excavate the Root Rhizomes

Bamboo spreads underground via an aggressive rhizome network. To stop it from spreading, you must dig out as many rhizomes as possible—ideally:

• At least 18–24 inches deep
• At least 2–3 feet beyond the visible bamboo patch
• With all broken rhizome fragments removed

This method is labour-intensive but can be very effective for small-to-medium infestations. For larger patches, we recommend pairing it with herbicide treatment (see below).

3. 

Cut & Spray Regrowth Method

After cutting bamboo down, wait 3–6 weeks for it to send up new green shoots. These young shoots are highly vulnerable to herbicide.

• Spot-spray the regrowth with a systemic herbicide
• Repeat 2–3 times over the course of a season
• Monitor and treat again the following year if needed

This method minimizes chemical use while increasing effectiveness. At Ascent Yard Care, we use targeted, low-toxicity herbicides that go directly into the plant’s root system for long-term suppression.

4. 

Install a Bamboo Root Barrier

For properties where bamboo must be contained (e.g., decorative stands), install a high-density polyethylene bamboo barrier at least:

• 30–36 inches deep
• Angled outward at the top to deflect rhizomes
• With no gaps or overlaps

This method is best used in combination with regular maintenance and works well in strata landscapes and modern gardens.

5. 

Smother Bamboo with Tarping or Mulch

For smaller areas, bamboo can be weakened or starved using heavy tarps or deep mulch:

• Cut bamboo to the ground
• Cover with industrial tarp or 12+ inches of mulch
• Weight the edges down securely
• Leave in place for 6–12 months

This deprives the plant of light and energy—but must be done with discipline and follow-up inspections.

6. 

Don’t Mow or Weed Whack Without a Plan

Mowing or string-trimming bamboo without follow-up treatment will only cause it to spread faster. Bamboo responds to damage by sending out more rhizomes and shoots. If you plan to mow, always pair it with chemical treatment or deep root removal.

7. 

Hire a Professional Bamboo Removal Team

Bamboo is one of the most persistent plants we deal with. Its rhizomes can pass under fences, lift up patios, and reappear months after you think it’s gone. At Ascent Yard Care, we offer full-service bamboo removal in Vancouver, including:

• Bamboo cutting and full stalk removal
• Deep rhizome excavation
• Follow-up regrowth monitoring
• Herbicide application (pet-safe, targeted)
• Soil restoration or planting replacement options

We use heavy-duty tools and specialized experience to eliminate bamboo from residential, strata, and commercial properties.

Areas We Serve

Our bamboo removal services are available in:

• Vancouver
• North Vancouver
• West Vancouver
• Burnaby
• Richmond
• Coquitlam
• Surrey
• New Westminster
• Delta
• And surrounding communities

Get Bamboo Under Control—Permanently

Bamboo won’t go away on its own. Let Ascent Yard Care help you reclaim your property with a strategic, proven plan to eliminate invasive bamboo.

Victoria’s best now in Vancouver.