Is bamboo root barrier needed?

Pear_tree

Hi everyone

We have 5 clumps of bamboo plants in the garden which were already here when we moved in 18 months ago. Some are phyllostachys nigra and some are phyllostachys aureosulcata. I've read conflicting advice on whether we need to install root barriers. Some websites say that they will not be invasive in the UK climate but others say that they will soon be popping up everywhere/ growing into our neighbours house/ taking over the world etc. Will be a lot of work and expensive to install so hoping to avoid this but a bit worried about it spreading if we don't.

Grateful for any advice on what to do!

KT53

If there isn't a barrier currently I would certainly install one.  Aurea in particular can be well behaved for years and then decide to start the great escape. Nigra isn't normally anything like as bad. The barrier doesn't need to be very deep, about 30cm will be enough.  It isn't going to be cheap with current material prices but if you check out local noticeboards you may find people getting rid of paving slabs or similar which you could us.

bertrand-mabel

@Pear_tree all advice will conflict with what you have.

Bamboos are fabulous but they do tend to do what nature says...they move.

We have used barriers and the growths still go under.

You have to keep looking for new growths where you don't want them then cut them back.