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We bought a house in October. Beyond our yard (the grassy part) we have about 40 ft of woods. In the winter, you can see right through the woods to the road, so we were hoping to plant something at the back of the woods to acts as a screen from the road, but something that will look like it is naturally-occurring (not like a hedge, which would require permission from our HOA). We were thinking about the bamboo we've seen growing in random spots around the area. Can anyone tell me what the name of this bamboo-stuff is? Is it something people purposely plant, or is it considered a nuisance here? How quickly does it spread?
Bamboo is not the best idea. It's a grass that grows via underground runners and will quickly spread to places where it's not wanted. I would suggest a fast growing evergreen tree like cedar as a screen/hedge. There are other options for trees too. If the HOA allows bamboo, they should allow cedar or something like it.
I guess I didn't realize bamboo was so invasive. When I see it on the side of the road, it seems contained to a clump.
My HOA is having a lot of problems right now, and quite honestly, I don't know who I would even talk to about planting in my back yard. My feeling is, if it's naturally occurring forest, they are going to object to anything that doesn't appear naturally occurring. If I plant some type of evergreen typically used as a hedge, I am pretty sure I'd be violating HOA rules, as they specifically say you can't plant a hedge.
Thank you for your reply and for the info about bamboo. I guess I will either have to come up with another natural looking idea, or just live with the sparse-ness until the woods fill in again this spring.
Bamboo is invasive. We once rented a house with bamboo in the back, and it was terrible. Not only does it spread quickly, but it attracted a lot of starlings (translation: lots of bird droppings!). Also, ticks seem to like it. Ugh!
Maybe someone on the architectural committee of your HOA might have some suggestions for plantings that would grow well and still meet regulations.
I would recommend a visit to a local garden center -- they can give you advice based on the area you want to cover, sun, etc. Wilson's in Rock Hill is a great place to start!
we were hoping to plant something at the back of the woods to acts as a screen from the road, but something that will look like it is naturally-occurring (not like a hedge, which would require permission from our HOA).
What does your HOA Covenants say about landscaping? I know mine has a lot of restrictions but nothing that restricts landscaping.
Like I said, I know they said you can't plant a hedge... other than that, I don't think there are restrictions, but I can't be sure. And unfortunately, I have no way to contact the HOA because of the current state of the HOA. They dropped the management company. The builder who supposedly controls the HOA is very difficult to get a hold of and seems to be avoiding most people.
Is there a local native plant organization around you? I bet they would have the best suggestions.
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