As the title suggests, I actually
want bamboo, and I am in Southern Mississippi. I have searched extensively on
ABS trying to learn as much as I can on which species will suit my conditions and give me my desired results, but without doing some Q&A with those with firsthand experience, it leaves me kind of confused.
I want a good "lumber" crop. Largest diameter culm with greatest length between nodes. This will be used mainly for craft projects ranging from minor construction (furniture, sheds, pump houses, etc) to artistic (wind chimes, bird feeders/houses, etc) and practical uses (fencing, stakes, fishing poles, etc). I prefer species of fastest possible maturity to shorten harvest intervals.
I have well-drained topsoil that supports fast growth for everything from pines and oaks, to fruit-bearing trees and bushes, to basic veggie gardens and flowering plants. Grasses of all kinds seem to prosper very well. Topsoil averages 2' depth over sandy red clay. Hardiness zone is
8-9.
I am well aware of the different methods of containment for "running" species and am prepared to create barrier walls to prevent over-run of the bamboo into areas where I do not want it. If the initial plantings prove successful, I may utilize up two acres just for bamboo cultivation.
Does anyone have any suggestions on which specific bamboo will suit my needs and give me the desired results? Sources? If possible I would like to get started before the warmer spring weather sets in so that I can get a jump on things and maybe get a few canes by next winter.