Bamboo Seeds & The Roots And Leaves Of Palms

Question:

 I planted Giant Bamboo about ten years ago in a 'bamboo pit'. Then, about two and half years ago, I cut it down to the ground and covered the pit. I uncovered the pit a year ago, and there aren't any signs of any Bamboo. But when I dig around, I find these large one-inch seeds. I want to plant a Japanese Maple in this spot, but I fear that the seeds will germinate. Any suggestions on what to do?

Answer:

  • Bamboo seeds have short viability, so these seeds might be too old to sprout now that the area is exposed to the light. But I don't know for sure if the seeds would germinate.
  • So, my solution would be to try to germinate some of the seed to see if it is viable before taking the chance and planting a Japanese Maple I'd then sow the seed in a couple of used containers of pre-moisten potting soil. I'd them cover the pots with saran wrap or any other transparent material. The covering will keep the soil moist, and you can monitor what's happening.
    • The germination rate and time depend on the variety of bamboo. Black Bamboo doesn't germinate quickly it can take up to six months. If they don't show any growth by the fall, I'd go ahead and plant your maple. You should dig a hole about twice as wide as the container and six inches deeper. The backfill is amended with planting mix, compost, or soil conditioner at a 50/50 ratio.
    • The selection of Japanese maples is slim in the fall, so I'd look to purchase one now and nature in the continuer until the fall.

NOTE: Bamboo is a grassy plant, not a broadleaf evergreen, and its flower looks like a head of wheat. Unlike many types of common lawn grasses, most bamboo plants only reach a mature reproductive phase after six to sixty years of growth, depending on the species. Pollination can occur with the assistance of wind or insects, although some species are self-pollinating. Several weeks may pass between pollination and the time the seeds set. Mature seeds appear dry and brown, often resembling grains of rice.

Question:

 I understand that Palm trees actually grow in reverse. Many years ago, I was told that the root structure of a palm is what we see on top, and its leaves are in the ground. Please correct me if I'm wrong

Answer:

  •  Someone was either pulling your leg or you were just uninformed. The information is false, besides not making much sense.
    • The leaves of all plants process sunlight and turn it into food. This process is called Photosynthesis. So, they need to be above ground. Roots gather water and nutrients from the soil and serve as the plumbing system, delivering it to the leaves.
    • Roots have one other function: to stabilize the plant, so it doesn't fall over. So, leaves can't be roots, and roots can't be leaves. They are not interchangeable.
  • Personally, I think someone was pulling your leg.