Bamboo products are well-known for their benefits. This plant is one of the fastest-growing species in the world, reaching maturity in just 3 to 5 years. Rapid growth cycle and ability to absorb carbon dioxide, make bamboo a stylish and environmentally friendly choice for any garden.
Bamboo screening panels have got impressive tensile strength, even surpassing that of steel. This characteristic allows them to withstand significant bending and pressure, making bamboo a flexible and durable choice for fencing in windy outdoor conditions. Bamboo species contain natural compounds that make this material resistant to moisture, pests, and decay. This means bamboo screens require less treatment and maintenance compared to traditional external wood works.
Also, bamboo is strong as hardwood but is relatively lightweight. However, it needs an experienced carpenter to machine and install.
Cultural Impact of Bamboo Screening Panels
Bamboo panels have been used in traditional Asian architecture for centuries, as they provide an attractive way to divide spaces and define visual boundaries. Bamboo light privacy fences are also used to create private areas for meditation, tea ceremonies and contemplation. The traditional manufacturing of bamboo panels is a skilled craft, and the braiding of the canes is historically considered as a form of artistic expression.
In Japan, bamboo ornamental ‘see-through’ fences – sukashi-gaki - have first been used during the Kamakura period (1185–1333). The garden visitor can see what lies behind the screens but cannot go out there. In this case the design element is be used to increase curiosity. All types of traditional Japanese fencing are described in ‘Bamboo Fences of Japan’ by Isao Yoshikawa, with photos by Osamu Suzuki.
What about Australia?
Bambusa balcooa is a large-growing plant of clumping bamboo natively originating from the Indian subcontinent to Indo-China. It was first introduced to Australians by Governor Phillip in 1788. He hoped the plant would thrive in the warm climate with year-round exposure to the sun. Most clumping bamboo species are tropical, but currently there is a good range which perform well in the southern areas of Australia.
Being a durable building material bamboo was often used to make furniture and outdoor decors in the Victorian period. Historical bamboo fences and some original planting can be now noticed surrounding the gardens at heritage Vaucluse House and Elizabeth Farm in NSW.
