Here are photos from the China area in Epcot:
Enjoy,
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/madmanbamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Sunday, June 26, 2016
One of the coolest places to see unusual bamboo - Disney's Epcot in Florida.
Was looking through pictures today from my journeys over the years and hands down, one of my favorite places for viewing bamboo is Disney's Epcot in Florida. Of course, most of it does not grow well here in Sacramento, CA as its too cold. Nonetheless, always enjoy how they incorporate bamboo into the park's landscape.
Here are photos from the China area in Epcot:
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/madmanbamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Here are photos from the China area in Epcot:
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/madmanbamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Is bamboo drought tolerant?
As of this post, California is in the grip of a pretty serious drought - one that has been around for about two years, but in 2014 turned quite severe. Pretty bad. Though thankfully the March 2014 storms have provided some relief, but certainly the drought is not over by any stretch and this summer will prove to be a challenging one. As I know that this is top of mind for many of you - I wanted to address a very common question that I have been asked over the years - "Is bamboo drought tolerant?"
Yes, somewhat - but it really depends.
OK, so not the clearest answer, but let me explain.
Clumping bamboo tends to be more drought tolerant that its running cousin because it grows slightly deeper, on average. This lends the ability to have more water supply opportunities for the plant, much like a tree with a deep taproot would. However, generally this would require the bamboo to have a mature, established root mass. So, if your planting a brand new bamboo plant, don't expect to treat it like a California Poppy (which is a very drought tolerant California native plant). A new bamboo plant, like most plants, require regular water in the first full going season for the roots to grow and become established.
Bambusa ventricosa 'Buddha's Belly Bamboo' and Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr' (both far left of photo) doing well in our water efficient front yard. By removing the front yard grass and watering efficiently in both the front and back yard, we realized a 58 percent reduction from the same time last year.
After that, you could be moderately miserly, to some extent with water, but the trade-off is that the growth of the bamboo plant will slow and it won't be as lush as it would with a consistently moist soil. But there are limits, and your bamboo plant will show it with yellowing leaves and curling leaves.
So, one other myth to dispel (bamboo carries a lot of myths with it) - bamboo likes soggy, wet soils. In fact, many visualize bamboo you see in the jungle - jungles get a lot of rain and thus all bamboo must like soggy soil. Well, not really. Some bamboo can tolerate soggy soils, but the vast majority do not. If fact, soggy soils over an extended period of time lead to root rot, which will ultimately kill the bamboo plant outright. Don't get me wrong, bamboo likes regular watering, like an average medium water use plant, and can tolerate some dryness, but moderation is the key.
So - with this drought - here are some easy strategies to keep your bamboo happy and while using water wisely.
- First, mulching is a great way to extend moisture around the plant and slow evaporation of water. Plus a good mulch offers other fertilizing benefits to the bamboo as well.
- Supplement your water that would have normally gone down the drain. Many Californians are using a low tech solution to capture and use water that would have normally just gone down the drain. While warming your bath or sink water, put a bucket to capture that water. Use the water (at room temperature) to water your bamboo.
- Water your bamboo plant in the early morning to minimize evaporation and allow the plant to maximize the intake of the water provided, before air temperatures rise.
Tell-tale sign that your bamboo needs watering. Curling of leaves.
- Pay attention to your bamboo plant - if you get leaf curling, its a signal that your bamboo needs to be watered. Short periods of dryness are OK - but don't push it.
For many, droughts offers unique opportunities to learn and adapt to extraordinarily dry conditions. Bamboo can survive in a drought, it just takes a deeper understanding of the plant and its needs, coupled with common-sense water efficiency practices that apply really to any type of landscape circumstance.
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/madmanbamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Yes, somewhat - but it really depends.
OK, so not the clearest answer, but let me explain.
Clumping bamboo tends to be more drought tolerant that its running cousin because it grows slightly deeper, on average. This lends the ability to have more water supply opportunities for the plant, much like a tree with a deep taproot would. However, generally this would require the bamboo to have a mature, established root mass. So, if your planting a brand new bamboo plant, don't expect to treat it like a California Poppy (which is a very drought tolerant California native plant). A new bamboo plant, like most plants, require regular water in the first full going season for the roots to grow and become established.
Bambusa ventricosa 'Buddha's Belly Bamboo' and Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr' (both far left of photo) doing well in our water efficient front yard. By removing the front yard grass and watering efficiently in both the front and back yard, we realized a 58 percent reduction from the same time last year.
After that, you could be moderately miserly, to some extent with water, but the trade-off is that the growth of the bamboo plant will slow and it won't be as lush as it would with a consistently moist soil. But there are limits, and your bamboo plant will show it with yellowing leaves and curling leaves.
So, one other myth to dispel (bamboo carries a lot of myths with it) - bamboo likes soggy, wet soils. In fact, many visualize bamboo you see in the jungle - jungles get a lot of rain and thus all bamboo must like soggy soil. Well, not really. Some bamboo can tolerate soggy soils, but the vast majority do not. If fact, soggy soils over an extended period of time lead to root rot, which will ultimately kill the bamboo plant outright. Don't get me wrong, bamboo likes regular watering, like an average medium water use plant, and can tolerate some dryness, but moderation is the key.
So - with this drought - here are some easy strategies to keep your bamboo happy and while using water wisely.
- First, mulching is a great way to extend moisture around the plant and slow evaporation of water. Plus a good mulch offers other fertilizing benefits to the bamboo as well.
- Supplement your water that would have normally gone down the drain. Many Californians are using a low tech solution to capture and use water that would have normally just gone down the drain. While warming your bath or sink water, put a bucket to capture that water. Use the water (at room temperature) to water your bamboo.
- Water your bamboo plant in the early morning to minimize evaporation and allow the plant to maximize the intake of the water provided, before air temperatures rise.
- Pay attention to your bamboo plant - if you get leaf curling, its a signal that your bamboo needs to be watered. Short periods of dryness are OK - but don't push it.
For many, droughts offers unique opportunities to learn and adapt to extraordinarily dry conditions. Bamboo can survive in a drought, it just takes a deeper understanding of the plant and its needs, coupled with common-sense water efficiency practices that apply really to any type of landscape circumstance.
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/madmanbamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
PARK(ing) Day and bamboo in Sacramento, California
I had the good fortune to work with the local Sacramento of landscape architecture firm - Stantec on Park(ing) Day which was held this past Friday (September 20, 2013). PARK(ing) Day is an annual worldwide event where artists, designers and citizens transform metered parking spots into temporary public parks.
As of 2011 (they stopped counting), this international event was celebrated in 162 cities, 35 countries, and 6 continents.
So, my part in this event - I was asked to lend bamboo for the Stantec project in midtown Sacramento. To add more bamboo, to the very bamboo savvy Sacramento - I'm in... all in. Gotta help the landscape architecture firm that appreciates the beauty, utility and awesomeness of bamboo.
So, here is how the project turned out...
The Stantec Team. Bamboo used included 'Mexican Weeping Bamboo', 'Weaver's Bamboo' and 'Big Leaf Bamboo.'
Strolling through the competing projects. The bamboo looks great!
Nice transformation of a midtown Sacramento parking spot!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin
916-300-6335
Facebook - www.facebook.com/madmanbamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Saturday, September 14, 2013
The best containers to grow bamboo in...
Ah, a moment of spare time - I finally have a chance to get back to this blog, break the radio silence and talk about a topic that I have been thinking about and get asked about alot - "What kind of container should I use for my bamboo?"
Bamboo lends itself to growing quite well containerized. In most cases, due to my relatively cautious nature and past experience, will advise most people to always containerize their running bamboo, due to its invasive nature when uncontrolled. Additionally, there are several clumping bamboo, such as Bambusa ventricosa 'Buddha's Belly Kimmei' that show off its best characteristics (bulbous 'belly' culms') in a container (pictured below).
So what is an ideal container for bamboo? Here are some ideas:
1. My favorite container is a metal horse trough, like these that I bought today. Simple, sturdy and best of all, the sides are at a 90 degree angle. Additionally, bamboo likes horizontal space and depth is not a priority (2 feet is typically adequate for depth for most bamboo). Be sure to drill a few drain holes at the bottom for good drainage.
2. I always stay away from pots that taper at the top - always go for straight side or pots that are "V' shaped. When it tapers, the bamboo root mass will tend to fill the pot's growing space completely making any future attempt to pull the the bamboo out an exercise in futility.
3. Always get a container that allows water to drain. Bamboo does not like to sit in water and 'wet feet' will cause the plant long-term harm up to death over time. Word of caution though, if you have a container that has a running bamboo and the container is on the ground, be sure to put a paver underneath the drain hole. Otherwise running rhizomes, will escape (pictured). This does not apply to clumping bamboo.
4. Think outside the box - bamboo is a unique plant - use the recommendations above, but get creative and bring out the best in your beautiful, unique bamboo.
Use these recommendations and your bamboo will be happy and healthy in its new home above the ground. Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin, CA
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook - Mad Man Bamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Bamboo lends itself to growing quite well containerized. In most cases, due to my relatively cautious nature and past experience, will advise most people to always containerize their running bamboo, due to its invasive nature when uncontrolled. Additionally, there are several clumping bamboo, such as Bambusa ventricosa 'Buddha's Belly Kimmei' that show off its best characteristics (bulbous 'belly' culms') in a container (pictured below).
So what is an ideal container for bamboo? Here are some ideas:
1. My favorite container is a metal horse trough, like these that I bought today. Simple, sturdy and best of all, the sides are at a 90 degree angle. Additionally, bamboo likes horizontal space and depth is not a priority (2 feet is typically adequate for depth for most bamboo). Be sure to drill a few drain holes at the bottom for good drainage.
2. I always stay away from pots that taper at the top - always go for straight side or pots that are "V' shaped. When it tapers, the bamboo root mass will tend to fill the pot's growing space completely making any future attempt to pull the the bamboo out an exercise in futility.
3. Always get a container that allows water to drain. Bamboo does not like to sit in water and 'wet feet' will cause the plant long-term harm up to death over time. Word of caution though, if you have a container that has a running bamboo and the container is on the ground, be sure to put a paver underneath the drain hole. Otherwise running rhizomes, will escape (pictured). This does not apply to clumping bamboo.
4. Think outside the box - bamboo is a unique plant - use the recommendations above, but get creative and bring out the best in your beautiful, unique bamboo.
Use these recommendations and your bamboo will be happy and healthy in its new home above the ground. Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin, CA
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook - Mad Man Bamboo
Twitter - @madmanbamboo
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Signs that Spring 2013 is right around the corner...
This is the time of year when I start to wander outside more and more. My normally short attention span is exacerbated, by the draw of discovering something new in the garden that has budded out or sprung from the ground. Today was no exception of course.
I guess it is what makes us folks that love nature and gardening who we are. To me, this is the time of year when I awaken from the gray slumber of winter excited to see nature too, waking up.
So, today, in wandering around the tired, winter-worn garden, signs of life are indeed starting to emerge. No doubt with temperatures rising to the mid-70's in Sacramento in the coming week, this is just the beginning...
Definitely a time of excitement for gardeners. With camera in hand, and longer days, I'm sure I'll be drawn to the garden more and more. A distraction, that I don't mind at all.
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook | Twitter
P.S. If your ready to get back out in the garden and love unusual plants, check out two upcoming plant sales... Saturday, March 23 (Auburn Farmers Market (bamboo only)) and Saturday, March 30 (at McKinley Park in Sacramento; lots of plant vendors)). Details can be found at www.bamboocalifornia.blogspot.com.
I guess it is what makes us folks that love nature and gardening who we are. To me, this is the time of year when I awaken from the gray slumber of winter excited to see nature too, waking up.
So, today, in wandering around the tired, winter-worn garden, signs of life are indeed starting to emerge. No doubt with temperatures rising to the mid-70's in Sacramento in the coming week, this is just the beginning...
New shoot from my Phylostachys nigra 'Othello' pushing through the ground seeking the warm sun.
Buds are opening on my green Japanese Maple.
New colorful and furry shoot from my Bashania fargesii.
Definitely a time of excitement for gardeners. With camera in hand, and longer days, I'm sure I'll be drawn to the garden more and more. A distraction, that I don't mind at all.
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook | Twitter
P.S. If your ready to get back out in the garden and love unusual plants, check out two upcoming plant sales... Saturday, March 23 (Auburn Farmers Market (bamboo only)) and Saturday, March 30 (at McKinley Park in Sacramento; lots of plant vendors)). Details can be found at www.bamboocalifornia.blogspot.com.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Brrr... its cold, does my bamboo need a jacket?
Really when most people think of bamboo, they picture a lush green plant in a jungle. Well, jungles are usually in a tropical setting, warm and humid. So, one would wonder, can bamboo survive in cold temperatures? The short answer is 'yes.' Bamboo is such a diverse family of plants, originating from climates as cold as northern China to the warm jungles of Central America, an everything in between, including the Sacramento area.
With our recent 'cold' snap here in northern California with temperatures dipping below freezing, its bound to give a local plant lover some anxiety. Getting ready to go to breakfast on Saturday, I saw the usual tell-tale signs of a good hearty frost (pictured above). Icy white grass, visible breath and even some slippery ice on the sidewalk. Alas, knowing bamboo well, my anxiety level is pretty low, even given the frigid temperatures.
So, how do you figure out a bamboo plant's temperature tolerance? Typically, most bamboo growers don't rely on the USDA Hardiness Zones (pictured) as the basis to identify the minimum temperature tolerance of a plant. Although the map itself is useful in that it helps to identify your lowest average annual temperature, which is the first step, it is not the whole answer. The be all-end all for bamboo geek's like me are the temperature guidelines assigned to each bamboo variety by the American Bamboo Society.
Generally in the Sacramento region, where we have mild winters, the lowest temperature tolerance in a bamboo plant that I will carry for sale is 21 degrees f. However, I carry some varieties, like Phylostachys bissetti which can survive at temperatures as low as 10 below zero. Most running bamboo do not have an issue with the cold temperatures in northern California. By and large, you need to be cognizant of temperatures for the most popular genus of clumping bamboo growing in the Sacramento region called Bambusa, a practical non-invasive sun-loving clumping bamboo that are used to grow privacy hedges along fence lines.
Here is what to expect for the most popular Sacramento area Bambusas:
Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr' 18 f
Bambusa multiplex 'Hedge Bamboo' 18 f
Bambusa oldhamii 'Giant Clumping Timber Bamboo' 21 f
Bambusa ventricosa 'Buddha's Belly Bamboo' 21 f
Bambusa textilis 'Weaver's Bamboo' 18 f
Bambusa tuldoides 'Punting Pole Bamboo' 21 f
Several years ago, the Sacramento area dipped below 20 degrees for a few nights, quite rare, but I did cover some of my most temperature sensitive clumping bamboo.
Other clumping bamboo that are even more cold hardy for further up the foothills and low mountain regions is the Fargesia genus, native to the mountainous areas of China and found in the Himalayan range. Also a popular genus for Panda Bears, that eat this bamboo. Fargesias like Fargesia nitida 'Fountain Bamboo' and Fargesia murileae 'Umbrella Bamboo' are very cold hardy taking temperatures down to minus 15 below zero. Note that Fargesias are somewhat sun sensitive and should be grown in afternoon shade in our region.
So, the next time you wake up and see that hard frost, don't fret too much. If you stick to the bamboo listed above you should be fine - your bamboo isn't shivering like you probably are!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook | Twitter
With our recent 'cold' snap here in northern California with temperatures dipping below freezing, its bound to give a local plant lover some anxiety. Getting ready to go to breakfast on Saturday, I saw the usual tell-tale signs of a good hearty frost (pictured above). Icy white grass, visible breath and even some slippery ice on the sidewalk. Alas, knowing bamboo well, my anxiety level is pretty low, even given the frigid temperatures.
Generally in the Sacramento region, where we have mild winters, the lowest temperature tolerance in a bamboo plant that I will carry for sale is 21 degrees f. However, I carry some varieties, like Phylostachys bissetti which can survive at temperatures as low as 10 below zero. Most running bamboo do not have an issue with the cold temperatures in northern California. By and large, you need to be cognizant of temperatures for the most popular genus of clumping bamboo growing in the Sacramento region called Bambusa, a practical non-invasive sun-loving clumping bamboo that are used to grow privacy hedges along fence lines.
Here is what to expect for the most popular Sacramento area Bambusas:
Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr' 18 f
Bambusa multiplex 'Hedge Bamboo' 18 f
Bambusa oldhamii 'Giant Clumping Timber Bamboo' 21 f
Bambusa ventricosa 'Buddha's Belly Bamboo' 21 f
Bambusa textilis 'Weaver's Bamboo' 18 f
Bambusa tuldoides 'Punting Pole Bamboo' 21 f
Several years ago, the Sacramento area dipped below 20 degrees for a few nights, quite rare, but I did cover some of my most temperature sensitive clumping bamboo.
Other clumping bamboo that are even more cold hardy for further up the foothills and low mountain regions is the Fargesia genus, native to the mountainous areas of China and found in the Himalayan range. Also a popular genus for Panda Bears, that eat this bamboo. Fargesias like Fargesia nitida 'Fountain Bamboo' and Fargesia murileae 'Umbrella Bamboo' are very cold hardy taking temperatures down to minus 15 below zero. Note that Fargesias are somewhat sun sensitive and should be grown in afternoon shade in our region.
So, the next time you wake up and see that hard frost, don't fret too much. If you stick to the bamboo listed above you should be fine - your bamboo isn't shivering like you probably are!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook | Twitter
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Roseville homeowners bring tropical feel to their backyard - bamboo-style
Today we had a chance to visit some fellow bamboo aficionados that live in Roseville to see their backyard. Over a couple of years they have bought bamboo from me and have quite a nice collection of both running and clumping bamboo.
These folks are nice people and love bamboo. They have clumping bamboo from another house they still own but no longer live at and have grown to understand bamboo (the difference between running and clumping) and appreciate it for its usefulness and beauty.
As we walked into their backyard - I couldn't help to say - 'Wow!' The backyard has a definite 'oasis a la Hawaii feel.' They use both running (contained) and clumping species quite nicely in combination with palms and it is a really nice, relaxing and well done landscape. Most of which was done by themselves.
Here are some photos of their nice backyard:
A two year old Bambusa oldhamii 'Giant Clumping Timber Bamboo' behind a peaceful water feature.
An Otatea acuminata aztecorum 'Mexican Weeping Bamboo' in a cleverly constructed container that is finished off with bamboo fencing.
A Phylostachys nigra 'Giant Black' in a container in its first year of growth.
A hand-made tiki from Turlock, CA. I definitely need to get the name of the guy who does these.
I thought they did a great job on their backyard and am happy to see the bamboo that I grew has found a happy home, as it certainly shows.
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
www.madmanbamboo.com
(916) 300-6335
Facebook | Twitter
These folks are nice people and love bamboo. They have clumping bamboo from another house they still own but no longer live at and have grown to understand bamboo (the difference between running and clumping) and appreciate it for its usefulness and beauty.
As we walked into their backyard - I couldn't help to say - 'Wow!' The backyard has a definite 'oasis a la Hawaii feel.' They use both running (contained) and clumping species quite nicely in combination with palms and it is a really nice, relaxing and well done landscape. Most of which was done by themselves.
Here are some photos of their nice backyard:
A two year old Bambusa oldhamii 'Giant Clumping Timber Bamboo' behind a peaceful water feature.
An Otatea acuminata aztecorum 'Mexican Weeping Bamboo' in a cleverly constructed container that is finished off with bamboo fencing.
A Phylostachys nigra 'Giant Black' in a container in its first year of growth.
A hand-made tiki from Turlock, CA. I definitely need to get the name of the guy who does these.
I thought they did a great job on their backyard and am happy to see the bamboo that I grew has found a happy home, as it certainly shows.
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
www.madmanbamboo.com
(916) 300-6335
Facebook | Twitter
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Local bamboo artisan puts heart into his creations
At our September 15 plant sale in Elk Grove, I had the pleasure of meeting Steven King, a Sacramento area bamboo craftsman that makes both beautiful and functional hand-carved art pieces made from bamboo poles.
Steve's business, Bamboo Whisperer (www.bamboowhisperer.com) is just getting off the ground and he has already sold several pieces.
Steve has had an interesting journey that ultimately led him to pursue his craft.
"In 2007, my vehicle was hit head on by a wrong way driver. After receiving 2 operations on the left arm and one on the right, I began using meditation as a method of pain control. During sessions, I would play various styles of music. One particular genre stood out from the rest, and is how I discovered the wonderous sound of the Shakuhachi.
Deciding to take the next step, I began learning the instrument and accompanying music. Being able to produce the sounds that captured my full attention was a wonderful experience. Deciding to display the flutes, I began creating ideas on how best to do so while maintaining the harmony within the instrument. It was at this point that I realized the best medium to use was the same material as the flute itself. Bamboo!
Just as I created the first wall-mounted display, I learned that the surgeries failed. Five additional surgeries and four years later, I was no longer able to position my arms to hold the Shakuhachi.
Being mindful of not what was lost, but rather my new found passion, I spent 2011 developing crafting techniques which would allow me to continue working with bamboo under the new limitations.
The Shakuhachi and the warm, open community which surrounds it across the globe, helped me through some very difficult times. Through my art, I hope that in some small way, I'm able to offer something in return."
In talking to Steve at the sale, his art is both a passion and a means to achieve peace and focus. It was very clear to me that Steve loves what he does. I can relate. Although running Mad Man Bamboo is alot of work, it underscores a fact of life that if you love what you do, it doesn't feel like 'work.'
I also like it that Steve is a local craftsman. He has a personal stake in his art and it shows.
According to Steve, "Bamboo Whisperer is art, inspired by nature and life. I don't consider the pieces a form of my personal expression, but rather an opportunity for others to see more of the beauty nature has within it.
Sometimes I can visualize a piece immediately, other times I will have it sitting next to me for a week before the first cut. During the latter, I know something is there, but the image is unclear. Over time, I've come to realize the vision is always there in plain sight, it was only my thoughts which were out of focus.
In the meantime, if your interested in any of Steve's pieces, you can contact him at his website at www.bamboowhisperer.com.
Steve's business, Bamboo Whisperer (www.bamboowhisperer.com) is just getting off the ground and he has already sold several pieces.
Steve has had an interesting journey that ultimately led him to pursue his craft.
"In 2007, my vehicle was hit head on by a wrong way driver. After receiving 2 operations on the left arm and one on the right, I began using meditation as a method of pain control. During sessions, I would play various styles of music. One particular genre stood out from the rest, and is how I discovered the wonderous sound of the Shakuhachi.
Deciding to take the next step, I began learning the instrument and accompanying music. Being able to produce the sounds that captured my full attention was a wonderful experience. Deciding to display the flutes, I began creating ideas on how best to do so while maintaining the harmony within the instrument. It was at this point that I realized the best medium to use was the same material as the flute itself. Bamboo!
Just as I created the first wall-mounted display, I learned that the surgeries failed. Five additional surgeries and four years later, I was no longer able to position my arms to hold the Shakuhachi.
Being mindful of not what was lost, but rather my new found passion, I spent 2011 developing crafting techniques which would allow me to continue working with bamboo under the new limitations.
The Shakuhachi and the warm, open community which surrounds it across the globe, helped me through some very difficult times. Through my art, I hope that in some small way, I'm able to offer something in return."
In talking to Steve at the sale, his art is both a passion and a means to achieve peace and focus. It was very clear to me that Steve loves what he does. I can relate. Although running Mad Man Bamboo is alot of work, it underscores a fact of life that if you love what you do, it doesn't feel like 'work.'
I also like it that Steve is a local craftsman. He has a personal stake in his art and it shows.
According to Steve, "Bamboo Whisperer is art, inspired by nature and life. I don't consider the pieces a form of my personal expression, but rather an opportunity for others to see more of the beauty nature has within it.
Sometimes I can visualize a piece immediately, other times I will have it sitting next to me for a week before the first cut. During the latter, I know something is there, but the image is unclear. Over time, I've come to realize the vision is always there in plain sight, it was only my thoughts which were out of focus.
It is in this way, I am connected to every piece. Each one has either allowed, or enhanced a peaceful moment."
At the sale, we talked about Steve participating in future plant sales and local farmers' markets. I'm hoping we will see him and his art in 2013.
In the meantime, if your interested in any of Steve's pieces, you can contact him at his website at www.bamboowhisperer.com.
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
A nice Fall bamboo discovery in the garden...
I love this time of year. Fall is literally right around the corner and temperatures, with some exception, tend to get mild during the day with cooler evenings here in California. Can't complain about that!
Another reason I love the emergence of Fall is the fact that the new shoots on my clumping bamboo, that started shooting in July, are now starting to mature. Around this time of year, it's not uncommon to find some new 'bamboo' discoveries, piddling around the yard. Tonight was no exception.
Watering tonight and I stumbled across this beauty. A new large shoot from my Himalayacalamus hookerianus 'Teague's Blue Bamboo'. Hands down my favorite bamboo, with tonight's discovery affirming that.
Here is to a beautiful Fall!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
www.madmanbamboo.com
(916) 300-6335
Facebook | Twitter
Another reason I love the emergence of Fall is the fact that the new shoots on my clumping bamboo, that started shooting in July, are now starting to mature. Around this time of year, it's not uncommon to find some new 'bamboo' discoveries, piddling around the yard. Tonight was no exception.
Watering tonight and I stumbled across this beauty. A new large shoot from my Himalayacalamus hookerianus 'Teague's Blue Bamboo'. Hands down my favorite bamboo, with tonight's discovery affirming that.
Here is to a beautiful Fall!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
www.madmanbamboo.com
(916) 300-6335
Facebook | Twitter
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Sacramento needs more plant sales!
As a garden geek that loves his plant sales, I find that the Sacramento area has a few good ones, but they are far and few (at least in my opinion). My favorite one that I participate in every Spring is at the Shepard Arts and Garden Center in Sacramento put on the good people from the Sacramento Perennial Plant Club.
So for me (and my wife) its more than just getting that chance to sell the bamboo plants I take so much pride in. For us, its far more than that - a chance to catch up with fellow small local plant growers, other vendors, our customers - many of whom we consider to be friends. It's also a virtual 'kid in a candy store scenario' - we end up spending half the profit on new plants, many of which you would never find anywhere else.
In the Summer, Fall and Winter, there seems to be very few plants sales in the Sacramento are - a plant sale drought, if you will. I've never been one to just sit there and think that more plant sales are just going to magically appear. They take alot of work to pull together and I totally appreciate this reality.
So, taking matters into my own hands, I am partnering with Jennifer Kahl, who owns The Secret Garden in Elk Grove to organize a Autumn Garden Faire and Plant Sale. Ironically, we met Jennifer at a plant sale several years ago as a fellow vendor.
So for me (and my wife) its more than just getting that chance to sell the bamboo plants I take so much pride in. For us, its far more than that - a chance to catch up with fellow small local plant growers, other vendors, our customers - many of whom we consider to be friends. It's also a virtual 'kid in a candy store scenario' - we end up spending half the profit on new plants, many of which you would never find anywhere else.
Here is me in my element - talking bamboo at a plant sale
In the Summer, Fall and Winter, there seems to be very few plants sales in the Sacramento are - a plant sale drought, if you will. I've never been one to just sit there and think that more plant sales are just going to magically appear. They take alot of work to pull together and I totally appreciate this reality.
So, taking matters into my own hands, I am partnering with Jennifer Kahl, who owns The Secret Garden in Elk Grove to organize a Autumn Garden Faire and Plant Sale. Ironically, we met Jennifer at a plant sale several years ago as a fellow vendor.
Our focus for the Autumn Garden Faire and Plant Sale is to feature small niche and unique plant growers and local crafters and create a nice event that plant geeks like me and many others in the Sacramento area crave.
Here are the details of the event:
Here are the details of the event:
What: Autumn Garden Faire and Plant Sale
When: Saturday, September 15, 2012 from 9 am to 3 pm
Where: The Secret Garden located at 8450 West Stockton Boulevard Elk Grove, CA 95758 (Off of HWY 99 between Calvine and Sheldon)
Free to the public.
Please support your local plant growers and crafters, if you use Twitter, Facebook or other social media venues, give this event a 'shout out' and feel free to use the attached flier.
If you are a local plant grower or local crafter and wish to participate in the event, send me an e-mail at sean@madmanbamboo.com and I'd be happy to send you a vendor application.
Hope to see you there!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
Monday, July 30, 2012
The Huntington... definitely one for the gardener's bucket list...
Talk to most hard-core garden geeks, people like me, and we have our own garden 'bucket lists.' That list of dreamy garden destinations you must visit before you kick the bucket.
Over the years, I have sought out those 'dream' locations that could never be replicated in a home garden due to sheer size and cost, but are what make them special 'dream' places to visit. Places you never forget, places that bring you back to your childhood and fill your heart with joy and your mind with wonder.
Some of those places are in the Sacramento region, others are in the Bay Area and Southern California. Our proximity to all these locations, living in Sacramento, makes me appreciate living in California as a gardener's paradise full of bucket list places for gardeners to explore.
Recently, on a trip to Southern California, I was able to convince my family to spend a half day at The Huntington in San Marino, CA (near Pasadena), a 200 acre facility that has 120 acres of themed gardens as well as a library and and extensive art collection, among other things. Specifically, I was very excited to see the recently renovated Japanese Garden, the Chinese Garden (called the Garden of Flowering Fragrance) and the Jungle Garden.
The Huntington did not disappoint and it ranks on the top of places that I have now had the honor to visit.
Here are some photos of my recent visit:
This is the side view of the garden with a large grove of bamboo to the left that you can walk through.
This is the Plantain Court (Ba Jiao Yuan) in the Chinese-inspired Garden of Flowing Fragrance.
Over the years, I have sought out those 'dream' locations that could never be replicated in a home garden due to sheer size and cost, but are what make them special 'dream' places to visit. Places you never forget, places that bring you back to your childhood and fill your heart with joy and your mind with wonder.
Some of those places are in the Sacramento region, others are in the Bay Area and Southern California. Our proximity to all these locations, living in Sacramento, makes me appreciate living in California as a gardener's paradise full of bucket list places for gardeners to explore.
Recently, on a trip to Southern California, I was able to convince my family to spend a half day at The Huntington in San Marino, CA (near Pasadena), a 200 acre facility that has 120 acres of themed gardens as well as a library and and extensive art collection, among other things. Specifically, I was very excited to see the recently renovated Japanese Garden, the Chinese Garden (called the Garden of Flowering Fragrance) and the Jungle Garden.
The Huntington did not disappoint and it ranks on the top of places that I have now had the honor to visit.
Here are some photos of my recent visit:
The recently renovated Japanese Garden at The Huntington in San Marino, CA. At the top of the hill is the Japanese House. This garden opened to the public in 1928.
This is the side view of the garden with a large grove of bamboo to the left that you can walk through.
This is the bamboo pathway in the Japanese Garden.
This is the Plantain Court (Ba Jiao Yuan) in the Chinese-inspired Garden of Flowing Fragrance.
This is the Terrace of the Jade Mirror (Yu Jing Tai) in the Garden of Flowing Fragrance.
This is one of the many ponds in the Jungle Garden... very peaceful and beautiful.
This is part of a very old grove of Bambusa beecheyana 'Beechey Bamboo' (a clumping bamboo) that stands at the entrance of the Jungle Garden. This is likely at least 60 years old, if not older, and is massive.
Visiting The Huntington's garden was an experience I will never forget. I will be posting many more photos on out Facebook page over the next several weeks. Like our page and see much more than just this. For you fellow gardeners, if you love these types of experiences, add The Huntington in San Marino, CA to your gardeners 'bucket list.' It is worthy for placement on the top of the list for sure. I can mark this off my bucket list, but no doubt will visit again if the opportunity comes around again.
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
Got Bamboo?
We are very excited to offer a new shirt for all you bamboo lovers out there (or those that also love Panda Bears). This shirt is 100% cotton and is in a natural color. We have small, medium, large and extra large adult sizes available.
Shirts are $15, plus CA sales tax. We won't be able to sell them at the Farmers' Market, but will have them at future plant sales.
We can also ship anywhere in the United States for $5.50 shipping and handling.
Want a shirt? E-mail me at sean@madmanbamboo.com.
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
www.madmanbamboo.com
Monday, July 9, 2012
'Weaver's Bamboo' adds style to a modern LA area building
Sometimes when you have a 'garden moment', an inspiration, that one mix of plant material with hardscape or against the right building, it just speaks to you. This picture does just that for me.
Lately, I have grown to really appreciate Bambusa textilis 'Weaver's Bamboo' for it lush green coloring, upright stature and its clean open look. It looks like a classic running bamboo, but it is a non-invasive clumper. Names so for its thin culm walls that can be used for basket-weaving and other weaving crafts.
Paul, a Bamboo Geek blog reader, asked me to ID this plant and in exchange he gave me permission to show off this photo taken of a hedge of 'Weaver's Bamboo' taken in the Los Angeles area, used against a modern whitewashed building.
If this doesn't show off LA style, I'm not sure what does.... beautiful.
Never fear... it looks just as beautiful in our warm, sunny Sacramento landscapes as well!
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook | Twitter
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
A new variety of bamboo, a fluke or recipe for disappointment?
I often stroll about the backyard, usually on some project or just merely focused on a gardening basic, like keeping your plants watered during a hot summer day. It's easy to get so focused that you forget the little things, the garden surprises that lurk around the corner, soon to be discovered in the garden.
Admittedly, when I had passed by a three gallon container of Bambusa multiplex "Alphonse Karr" (a clumping bamboo) that I recently potted and that was slated to be sold at a farmers market or a plant sale, it never really caught my eye. It's not unusual during the summer to see leaves on bamboo that are heat stressed, faded or just show the effects of the season's extremes. I had probably walked by this bamboo several dozen times thinking a heat stressed culm on this bamboo had met its final days, fried in the hot, brutal Sacramento sun.
Finally, the other night, this plant caught my attention. Not sure why, but it did. Pure white leaves, mixed with dark green leaves, unusual, but very unlikely to be anything but dead leaves. I touched the leaves thinking that they were for sure dry, but much to my surprise, the leaves were alive and very healthy. My heart, going pitter patter, I knelt down and examined the plant further - three independent white-leaved culms among maybe a total of six other green-leaved culms.
My thought process - Eureka! A new variety!
Excited, I showed my wife who dispensed caution that this could indeed be a fluke, a mere coincidence. In bamboo geek-speak - a genetic anomaly. Only time will tell, I suppose. But, it was exciting to possibly have a new variety on my hands that perhaps, if I'm lucky, I could submit to the American Bamboo Society as a named variety.
So, as usual, getting way ahead of myself, I posted the photo on Facebook asking for common names for my "new" bamboo (if it turns out to be a stable new variety)...
This is what I got on Facebook (lots of clever folks for sure):
"Dove Bamboo"
"Ghost Bamboo"
"White Oragami"
"Crane Bamboo"
"White Gold"
"White Light"
"Peace Doves"
"White Unicorn"
"White Bamboo"
"Dawn Mist"
"Mist at Dawn"
"Karr Blanche" (clever)
So, I have a spot picked out for this bamboo. I will grow it out and observe it to see if its genetics are stable and showed the white-leaved leaf as a consistent trait. If so, I'll submit it as a new named variety, a dream come true for a plant geek like me. So, if you read this blog and have a great idea for a new name, post it here. Who knows, it it rings true, I may use it.
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
www.madmanbamboo.com
Facebook | Twitter
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Congrats to Aaron Cochran for winning a local Turf War contest... using bamboo in a landscape design
I must admit that I have been a bit busy and well... I'm a bit behind on a few things including this blog. One thing that was a great experience a few months ago was to participate on the DIY Network's show Turf War. No, I didn't have my yard remade into something new, pitting my self against a competing neighbor's yard makeover. Rather, I was able to provide clumping bamboo for the project (one of the competing neighbor's yard located in Elk Grove, CA). The show itself aired on June 1, hence my guilt for the lateness of this post.
I couldn't post photos or really even discuss the show until it aired on June 1. So 16 days later, I want to share me experiences with the show and the project.
As with most camera shoots that are not live, your often at the whim or mercy of the post-production editor. And much to my surprise, when I was finally able to watch the show (via the complimentary DVD that was sent to me by the production company), I actually had some air time (providing advice on clumping bamboo to one of the show's contestants).
In the show I participated - Fire Water versus Floating Bed, I had the great honor of working with local landscape professional Aaron Cochran of Landscapes by Cochran. Aaron is one of the most down-to-earth guys you could run across in the landscaping industry and really cares about the details. He is passionate about his work and it shows. In the episode I participated in - Aaron won. No surprise from me. Aaron knew the difference between running and clumping bamboo and know how to incorporate it into a landscape appropriately and artistically.
Honestly, this understanding of bamboo (specifically the difference between running and clumping bamboo) is lost on many folks, even landscape professionals, but Aaron showed a level of expertise and savvy on how you can use clumping bamboo - with all the benefits and none of the problems that running bamboo can pose in the ground. Of course, with the good information that does exist on clumping bamboo on the internet and in well-informed gardening magazines, the perception of bamboo, specifically clumping bamboo, is changing.
I also was very impressed with the production staff at Big Table Media, a Sacramento based production company, and there overall knowledge of bamboo. I discussed bamboo at length with some of the production staff and they showed a genuine appreciation for bamboo and really understood the difference between running and clumping bamboo. It was really quite refreshing.
Thanks to professionals like Aaron, he was able to use clumping bamboo in his winning Turf War design. Cheers to that!
So, here are a few photos and highlights from the Turf War episode I participated in:
I couldn't post photos or really even discuss the show until it aired on June 1. So 16 days later, I want to share me experiences with the show and the project.
As with most camera shoots that are not live, your often at the whim or mercy of the post-production editor. And much to my surprise, when I was finally able to watch the show (via the complimentary DVD that was sent to me by the production company), I actually had some air time (providing advice on clumping bamboo to one of the show's contestants).
In the show I participated - Fire Water versus Floating Bed, I had the great honor of working with local landscape professional Aaron Cochran of Landscapes by Cochran. Aaron is one of the most down-to-earth guys you could run across in the landscaping industry and really cares about the details. He is passionate about his work and it shows. In the episode I participated in - Aaron won. No surprise from me. Aaron knew the difference between running and clumping bamboo and know how to incorporate it into a landscape appropriately and artistically.
Honestly, this understanding of bamboo (specifically the difference between running and clumping bamboo) is lost on many folks, even landscape professionals, but Aaron showed a level of expertise and savvy on how you can use clumping bamboo - with all the benefits and none of the problems that running bamboo can pose in the ground. Of course, with the good information that does exist on clumping bamboo on the internet and in well-informed gardening magazines, the perception of bamboo, specifically clumping bamboo, is changing.
I also was very impressed with the production staff at Big Table Media, a Sacramento based production company, and there overall knowledge of bamboo. I discussed bamboo at length with some of the production staff and they showed a genuine appreciation for bamboo and really understood the difference between running and clumping bamboo. It was really quite refreshing.
Thanks to professionals like Aaron, he was able to use clumping bamboo in his winning Turf War design. Cheers to that!
So, here are a few photos and highlights from the Turf War episode I participated in:
Aaron Cochran and I at the project site, clumping bamboo is in the background.
Filming the homeowner and Aaron working on the water feature.
Bambusa ventricosa 'Buddha's Belly Bamboo' that I helped the homeowners plant in pots. Great choice since a constrained environment (growing in a pot) really brings out the 'bellies' in this bamboo. If you watch the episode, this is where I provided advice along the way, some of which showed up.
Overall, I really enjoyed participating in the show. Aaron really did a great job on design and execution. Most of all, his incorporation of bamboo showed a level of sophistication and understanding. Coupled with the well-informed Big Table Media staff, it was great to see how well this project turned out with the use of clumping bamboo.
The show continues to be re-aired, so check your local listing or the DIY Network's website for the next time it is scheduled to air.
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Rocklin bamboo nursery on DIY Network's Turf War “Fire Water vs. Floating Bed" episode
Tomorrow (Friday, June 1, 2012) at 6 pm - Here are the details on the Turf War episode I am on that airs on the DIY Network tomorrow - "Turf War “Fire Water vs. Floating Bed: But please be sure to check your local cable listing, as air times are subject to change! Here is a link to your episodes information that can help keep track air times: http://www.diynetwork.com/turf-war/fire-water-vs-floating-bed/index.htm"
I'll be posting photos of the project on my Bamboo Geek Blog shortly after the show airs.
Hope you enjoy the show!
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo Nursery - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
Monday, April 30, 2012
On most gardener's bucket list... U.S. Botanic Gardens in Washington D.C.
On a recent trip to Washington D.C., I had a chance to quickly swing by the U.S. Botanical Gardens. This place is not only a gardener's paradise, it is full of history and significance as is almost every square inch of Washington D.C. is.
Pulled from the US Botanical Gardens website, here is a brief history:
The United States Botanic Garden is rooted in the nation’s heritage. During the late 18th century, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison shared the dream of a national botanic garden and were instrumental in establishing one on the National Mall in 1820.
The institution actually traces its beginning to 1816, when the constitution of the Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences in Washington, D.C., proposed the creation of a botanic garden to collect, grow and distribute plants of this and other countries that might contribute to the welfare of the American people. The Institute’s garden was established by Congress in 1820 to the west of the Capitol Grounds, from First Street to Third Street between Pennsylvania and Maryland Avenues. This facility functioned until shortly after the organization stopped holding meetings in 1837.
In 1842, the idea of a national botanic garden was reestablished when the United States Exploring Expedition to the South Seas (the Wilkes Expedition) brought a collection of living plants from around the globe to Washington, D.C. Initially placed in a specially constructed greenhouse behind the Old Patent Office Building, the plants were moved in late 1850 into a new structure on the site previously occupied by the Columbian Institute’s garden.
Pulled from the US Botanical Gardens website, here is a brief history:
The United States Botanic Garden is rooted in the nation’s heritage. During the late 18th century, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison shared the dream of a national botanic garden and were instrumental in establishing one on the National Mall in 1820.
The institution actually traces its beginning to 1816, when the constitution of the Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences in Washington, D.C., proposed the creation of a botanic garden to collect, grow and distribute plants of this and other countries that might contribute to the welfare of the American people. The Institute’s garden was established by Congress in 1820 to the west of the Capitol Grounds, from First Street to Third Street between Pennsylvania and Maryland Avenues. This facility functioned until shortly after the organization stopped holding meetings in 1837.
In 1842, the idea of a national botanic garden was reestablished when the United States Exploring Expedition to the South Seas (the Wilkes Expedition) brought a collection of living plants from around the globe to Washington, D.C. Initially placed in a specially constructed greenhouse behind the Old Patent Office Building, the plants were moved in late 1850 into a new structure on the site previously occupied by the Columbian Institute’s garden.
The US Botanical Garden in 1867.
In continuous operation and open to the public since 1850, the Botanic Garden moved to its present location in 1933, a complex located along the north and south sides of Independence Avenue bordered by First Street and Third Streets, SW. The Garden includes the Conservatory, which was renovated from 1997-2001; the National Garden, which opened in 2006; and Bartholdi Park, which was created in 1932. A plant production and support facility opened in Anacostia in 1993, which includes 85,000 square feet under glass divided into 34 greenhouse bays in addition to maintenance shops.
The U.S. Botanic Garden was formally placed under the jurisdiction of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress in 1856 and has been administered through the Architect of the Capitol since 1934. The Architect of the Capitol has served as Acting Director of the U.S. Botanic Garden and is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the Garden and for any construction, changes or improvements made.
Beautiful specimen of Bambusa oldhamii 'Giant Clumping Timber Bamboo' in the main entryway
The U.S. Botanic Garden was formally placed under the jurisdiction of the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress in 1856 and has been administered through the Architect of the Capitol since 1934. The Architect of the Capitol has served as Acting Director of the U.S. Botanic Garden and is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the Garden and for any construction, changes or improvements made.
Making the most of the time I had, here is a picture tour of what I saw...
The front of the U.S. Botanic Gardens. Their feature exhibit was Orchid Mystique.
Beautiful specimen of Bambusa oldhamii 'Giant Clumping Timber Bamboo' in the main entryway
Part of the Orchid Mystique exhibit which really focused on the beauty of Orchids but also the fact that many varieties of the plant species is endangered in the world.
The main part of the conservatory which has a water feature down the middle. Very beautiful.
This was in the kid's play area. I had to really resist playing in the bamboo! This would have been a dream play area for me as a kid with a tunnel made of bamboo.
A 65 year old Willow Leaf Fig Bonsai Tree.
A nicely done terrarium.
A Stromanthe. A very stunning plant indeed.
Bambusa vulgaris 'Vitatta', a clumping bamboo that grows only under the protection of the conservatory.
If ever in Washington D.C., this is a must-visit place for any gardener. It is located near the House of Representative's side of the Capitol Building. Truly one of those places that belongs on a gardener's bucket list...
Cheers!
Sean
Mad Man Bamboo - Rocklin, CA
(916) 300-6335
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