Looking for a quick and easy way to cover ugly fences or screen your garden this summer? It could be that bamboo fence roll is the solution you need, particularly as it's also one of the most cost-effective ways you can upgrade your garden for less.
Made from bamboo canes or reeds, it's also a more natural option than other products, meaning it can even boost your eco-credentials.
Suitable for use on fences, walls or even for adding shade to pergolas, here's everything you need to know about using bamboo rolls in your garden design.
Types of bamboo fence roll
When it comes to choosing the best type of bamboo roll for your garden project, not all bamboo roll is made equal, as Tom Douglas, senior gardening buyer at Cherry Lane Garden Centres explains.
“There are a few different types available. Whole bamboo cane rolls tend to have a more decorative, premium look and are generally more robust, while bamboo reed rolls are made from thinner pieces of bamboo and can be a more budget-friendly option," he says, "although they're typically less durable over time."
Choosing the right product means getting the right balance between aesthetics, practicality and how long you need it to last.
Shop for bamboo fence roll
Screen your rear garden easily by using bamboo fence roll on existing fence panels
This simple bamboo fence roll comes in a variety of heights and lengths to suit your screening needs
This thick bamboo cane fence screening roll comes in two different sizes and would make as sturdy screen or fence covering
Tom Douglas is a Norwich-based buyer specialising in outdoor living and gardening products. He is passionate about developing products and inspiring gardeners of all experience levels and helping customers make the most of their outdoor spaces.
Where and how to use bamboo roll in your garden
So where can you use bamboo fence roll in your garden? It's surprisingly versatile says Tom Douglas, and suitable in a number of different locations, not just on fences.
“Bamboo roll is a simple and effective way to add privacy to a patio or garden without having to invest in new fencing," explains Tom. "It's great for covering unattractive fences or walls, screening off compost, wheelie bins and utility areas, or even creating a more secluded outdoor space.
“It can also help add extra height to existing fences," he adds, "helping to reduce wind exposure and provide a bit of welcome shade during the warmer months.”
If you've also invested in a pergola without a roof, but find that the re-occurring heatwaves are making you question your decision, using bamboo across the top of your frame could be one way of adding the shade you need.
When it comes to installation, it's also a lot easier than digging the ground for new fence posts or more permanent structures.
“Installing bamboo roll is relatively straightforward," confirms Tom. "It can be attached to existing fences, walls or structures using galvanised staples, screws or specialist fence clips to keep it secure.”
Use these for fixing bamboo fence roll
Galvanised staples are suitable for attaching your bamboo fence roll to existing fences
Use a claw hammer such as this when attaching galvanised staples to bamboo fence roll
Maintenance and lifespan
Unlike other types of fencing which can require regular painting or sanding and staining, bamboo fence rolls are also easy to look after.
“One of the biggest benefits is that it's very low maintenance," notes Tom Douglas. "Aside from occasionally brushing away dirt and debris, or giving it a gentle wash with water and a soft brush, there's not a great deal you need to do to keep it looking its best.”
But, will it last? Unlike other more solid fence panels such as composite fencing, as it's made of a natural material, you might not get as many years out of the product as you'd hoped. Although having lived in Asia and seen bamboo canes used as scaffolding, I'd certainly suggest that it may be stronger than you think.
“Lifespan really depends on the conditions it's exposed to," notes Tom. "Factors such as strong sunlight, heavy rain and high winds will all affect its lifespan, so a sheltered position will generally help it stay in good condition for longer.”
FAQs
Is planting bamboo a better option than bamboo fence roll?
Although you may prefer the more leafy, natural appearance of bamboo plants, it's recommended you proceed with caution when choosing and planting it in your garden. Choose the wrong type and you could end up with invasive bamboo problems.
Always opt for a non-invasive variety, recommends head of horticulture at B&Q, Mark Sage.
"There are several clumping bamboos available in the UK, but for me, Fargesia rufa really stands out as the most reliable and hardy option for our climate. It’s the one I’d confidently recommend to most gardeners.
"There are other types, such as Bambusa and Chusquea," he adds, "but they tend to be less hardy in UK conditions or simply not as widely available. For most gardens – especially in more built-up areas – Fargesia rufa offers a really practical solution: you still get that lush, evergreen privacy and structure, but without the worry of it taking over."
You can find Fargesia rufa on sale at B&Q.
If sustainable gardening is at the core of your garden ideas, as well as using bamboo roll for a more natural finish, take a look at these ways to re-use brick in your garden, and discover what else to include in your eco-friendly garden design.
