Bamboo questions

[jrosto]

I have a clump of bamboo in my back yard. I think it is "bunching" bamboo as it appears to be an old growth and has not expanded into the yard.

1. How do you tell exactly what kind of bamboo you have? If this is not the bunching or clumping type of bamboo, I will dig it out.

2. I have cut several canes to make trellises for Coral Hunneysuckle plants. How long should I let these canes dry before using them? I do now want them to take root in my flower garden :D

3. How fast do the canes compost in a fairly active compost pile. I will want to use my compost in the Spring, so I do have a good bit of time. I am cutting the leaves and very small stems into 1/2" pieces. I am not sure that it would be a good idea to put the larger pieces into the pile.

Thanks

[Brady McKinney]

:) I undestand they are numerous varieties of bamboo, most being very invasive, at least in a good environment. I use fresh cut bamboo for staking plants, and haven't had any sprout yet. Since they last two or three years before they rot in the ground, my guess is, at least the cane, would not work very well as a compost material.
Brady McKinney

[sandih]

You might be able to use this source to identify your variety:

www.bamboosourcery.com

[jrosto]

That is a very good site. Thanks