Homeowner issues dire warning after nightmare yard mistake spirals out of control: 'It got out of control so fast'

Most people long for privacy in their homes and yards. The go-to green solution is to use plants as a living barrier to keep away prying eyes, but be careful what you choose. 

A recent Reddit thread shed light on how planting fast-growing bamboo usually turns into a long-term relationship of the worst kind. The poster lamented the mess inadvertently created, and sympathetic replies reinforce how bamboo can take over your yard and your neighbors' property. 

Bamboo, which can even push into your home, is invasive. The OP shared a photo of the plant that had been growing for 15 years and noted, "It got out of control so fast." 

They noted that the bamboo was planted even though family members warned of the dangers. 

Just when you think you have the upper hand, wily offshoots let their presence be known. A commenter found that out the hard way: "My old neighbor planted some on his side of the fence. We were fighting the sharp shoots in our lawn for years before we moved. Walking barefoot in the grass? Not fun…"

Going native is easy, without inconveniences and possible injury. Using native plants for your landscaping also comes with big benefits. Species that grow naturally in your climate zone have already acclimated to the area. They require less maintenance and save both money and natural resources with lower water requirements and no need for pesticides. 

Native plants also support your local ecosystem, providing an easy way to take care of the land and wildlife. Pollinators such as bees and butterflies will flock to the plants their species have lived with for many years. Birds and bats also find safe spaces and food among native plants. The benefits for living creatures also include humans, because pollinators are critical in the protection of our food supply. 

Exact plants that will work best in your landscaping vary from one area to the next. One popular choice used to create a sustainable, grass-like lawn is clover. It is inexpensive, and its deep roots help with soil erosion. Choosing a native plant for a green lawn can be paired with xeriscaping using rocks or mulch to create a beautiful landscape that makes you and nature happy. 

Commenters gave the poster some suggestions about her dilemma, some helpful and some just humorous. One said, "I spent an entire summer cutting down bamboo. — I moved instead of finishing."

Another had an international idea: "Buy a couple pandas! PS: do not, seriously."

If you were to switch from a grass lawn to a more natural option, which of these factors would be your primary motivation? Making it look better 🌱 Saving money on water and maintenance 💰 Helping pollinators 🐝 No way I ever get rid of my lawn 🚫 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.