Bamboo grows rapidly and is very tough, which makes it difficult to eradicate, particularly if it is the running type. The plant proliferates quickly, sending out rhizome runners that sprout to form new plants, often where they are unwanted. No herbicide specifically indicates bamboo on the list of weeds it can kill, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension. However, some herbicides are effective on bamboo to kill or control its growth.
Glyphosate
Glyphosate can help to control bamboo growth, according to the University of Washington Extension. Cut or mow the bamboo, then allow it to grow back to a height of about 3 feet. Apply a solution of glyphosate directly to the leaves. A benefit of glyphosate is that it has little or no soil activity and will affect only the plants on which it is sprayed. Several applications, sometimes over several years, may be necessary to eradicate bamboo with glyphosate.
Imazapyr
Imazapyr is another choice to control bamboo. The University of Florida IFAS Extension states that imazapyr is somewhat more effective to control bamboo spread than glyphosate, but it tends to have a higher level of foliar and soil activity, and it can adversely affect other plants in the surrounding area. Use imazapyr only in areas clear of other desirable plants. Apply a solution of this herbicide on mowed regrowth.
Diclobenil
The North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension suggests the use of the herbicide diclobenil in the winter, in conjunction with summer applications of glyphosate. This herbicide attacks the rhizomes of the plant, which prevents them from sprouting or growing back in the spring. Diclobenil is very persistent in soil and will kill surrounding plants. An eradication cycle may take two years, during which time no other trees, shrubs or other ornamental plants can be planted in the treated area because of the persistence of diclobenil in the soil.
Fluazifop-p and Clethodim
If bamboo grows around trees or other ornamental plants that make treatment with gylphosate, imazapyr or diclobenil impossible, suppress bamboo with more selective herbicides, such as fluazifop-p and clethodim. These herbicides specifically control grasses. Bamboo, being a form of grass, reacts to treatment with either fluazifop-p and clethodim.
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