New homeowner distressed after inheriting nightmare lawn from previous owner: 'You'll likely have to fight this for years'

While it can be highly versatile and used in a number of ways, bamboo can also be an invasive pest that can dominate an ecosystem. 

One homeowner found that out firsthand after moving into a new home and checking out the exterior. Upon closer inspection, they discovered that the previous owner had a few bamboo plants that appeared to be spreading. The Redditor took to r/landscaping in search of some much-needed advice.     

In their post, the homeowner included a few pictures of bamboo plants that were growing just a few feet from their home. "Will they expand and hit my house?" they asked. 

Some species of bamboo are considered invasive due to their potential to outgrow their surroundings and branch out. Bamboo with running growth can spread aggressively with its underground stems. It can wreak havoc on environments by inflicting significant damage to gardens, property, and even structures.

Although bamboo can seem like a harmless addition to a backyard garden, it can prove to do more harm than good. Instead, native plants offer a more laid-back approach to landscaping, as they are more accustomed to local climates and soil types. 

Native plants also attract natural pollinators, contributing to local biodiversity and encouraging a healthy and flourishing ecosystem. They can even play a major role in controlling erosion while requiring less maintenance and watering, which can save you time and money. 

After gauging the situation, a few users in the comments section offered their best advice to the original poster. 

"Bamboo is tough but digging out the roots is possible. You'll likely have to fight this for years," warned one user. "Consider putting another, deeper metal zoning plate while you begin removal."

"If left untended your whole side yard will rapidly become part of the colony and they will keep spreading from there. You have to sweep up the leaves to see any early encroachments," wrote a second commenter. 

Meanwhile, a third user took the time to offer up a lighthearted joke. "There's an old saying [in] landscaping. When life gives you bamboo that you don't want; move," they quipped. 

What's the hardest thing about taking care of your yard? Mowing the lawn 🏡 Controlling weeds 🌿 Keeping pests at bay 🐿️ I don't have a yard 🤷 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

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