What Is the Best Potting Soil for Bamboo?
Bamboo grows well in containers -- particularly running bamboo, since it can`t "escape" -- and in the soil. This plant likes a rich soil and plenty of water and rewards the gardener with rapid growth.
Soil Preference
Bamboo enjoys well-draining rich soils, so look for a potting soil that is well-draining, not sandy. Loamy soil is ideal, since this combines sand, clay and silt to hold moisture in to nourish the plant while still allowing adequate drainage.
Mulch
The American Bamboo Society recommends using mulch to naturally fertilize your bamboo. Consider adding organic mulch in addition to potting soil when growing bamboo in containers. They suggest any type of organic mulch.
Considerations
If you have sandy soil and want to grow bamboo, you will need to water the plant much more often. Bamboos in general need 1 gallon of water per 5 gallons of plant (based on the nursery container size), so plan accordingly. If you have heavier soil that does not drain well, you will need to water less often, but bamboo roots may get damaged over time in this type of soil.