Bamboo is very versatile and can be used for both indoor and outdoor purposes. If you need to add an extra something to your yard, garden, or bottom of your wall in replace of a baseboard, bamboo functions as a great alternative.
Bamboo is one of the earth’s most renewable resources. When harvested properly, bamboo does little or no environmental damage.
A bamboo border fence is the logical choice for separating the grassy area of a yard from the tilled soil of a flower or vegetable garden, but you don’t have to be limited to a run-of-the-mill square or rectangular gardening plot. Instead of fending off a corner of your yard, why not create a few different circular sections throughout the area? Because border fencing is assembled using wire made from galvanized steel, it is flexible and can encircle garden spots of practically any shape. Plant red and pink flora in a heart-shaped plot, and put lush, green foliage inside a four-leafed clover, both edged with an attractive bamboo border. Make diamonds, stars, or abstract shapes–whatever you desire to liven up an otherwise common yard.
It is easy to find pre-assembled bamboo border sections.
An example of a ready-made panel thanks to www.foreverbamboo.com:
1” diameter bamboo poles that have been capped and connected with heavy gauge stainless steel wire. Each panel preassembled in 1’ tall by 8’ long sections and staggered. There are uneven or staggered options or even (the height is the same all the way across) styles.
If you choose to put in more time, thought, and energy your options on edging or bamboo border designs are endless.
How to Install a Border:
Measure the length you want to put a border on. Decide on the diameter of the poles. Divide the length of edging you need by the width of each pole and that will tell you how many pieces you need.
Example: 24ft long (divided by 12) = 288 inches, divided by 2inches (width of cane) = 144 pieces/canes.
Decide on the required height of the finished edge, 4″, 6″, 8″, or random heights.
If you are going to put each piece in the ground add the length that will be in the ground to the required height. If you are going to peg them at each end and have them sitting on top of the surface the required height will be the exact measurement. Take the figure resulting from number 1 above and multiply it by the required height.
Example at 6″ high (on top of soil): 144 multiplied by 6 = 864ft of cane required.
With the total linear length for your design, you now need the length the poles are available in and divide the result of 2 above by the length of the poles you will purchase to cut to size. Now you know how many poles to buy!
Example for 12ft poles: 864ft divided by 12ft = 72 canes/poles
If you use a wider cane you will need less of them, re-calculate to see how much you need. I find it’s always wise to get a little bit extra in case you mess up with the cutting.
If you desire a finish with a closed node at the top of each piece to prevent water accumulating in the tubes you might waste some poles from the cutting. Order more than you need or ensure that your supplier has more available if necessary.
Tips for Building Your Bamboo Edging Border
- Use pressure-treated hardwood for the end stakes that will be in contact with or buried in the soil. Regular contact with damp soil can cause the bamboo to rot after 3-4 years and pre-treated hardwood stakes may last longer. Round stakes will match the bamboo.
- We suggest using a finely bladed hacksaw to cut the canes. This will minimize any breakage.
- To prevent water from collecting inside the canes, you might cut above the joint at the top diagonally or vertically, so that the membrane can help provide protection.
- To prevent cracking while nailing, drill holes that are fractionally bigger than the nail, prior to nailing. Use care with the hammer to avoid crushing the cane. Alternatively, use a nail gun/driver.
- Petroleum-based preservatives are recommended. Oils such as hemp are another option.
- The edging or border will age with time. It may change color and crack from expanding and contracting in different temperatures and weather conditions. This is natural and will not affect the strength of your product.
Care and Maintenance
Just like a wooden edge, bamboo can wear down over time. It will also last for years if you provide the same care of construction and maintenance that you would care for a wooden edge or fence.
Shop Forever Bamboo for borders!
If you have any questions contact Forever Bamboo or call for more information at 877-912-2244.
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