I'm going to be harvesting a stand of bamboo this week. Don't know the variety but it's maybe 2-2.5" in circumference and 15-20' tall. I have large loppers for pruning tree branches but what else can be used? Sawzall(sp?), chainsaw? Will have men helping so will have some muscle there ;) This is a live stand too, not dead. Making a pergola and fencing with it. Any harvesting info/experience would be much appreciated. Will also need info on building with it. Anyone know of some good informational websites?
Thanks so much,
Lana
Harvesting Bamboo, Tools Needed???
Lana if it's that big you will need saws or a light saber from star wars.
Also the saws will need to be sharpened, or blades changed often.
Heavy clothes as the leaves can cut you depending on the variety.
It will be a while before you can use it.
Like lumber it will need to cure.
4-12 weeks I've always heard.
Here's a site
http://www.bamboo-craft.com/forums/showthread.php?t=338
Ric
Whoops should have opened here.
http://www.bamboo-craft.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=b1d3e0f015501cb938fb1346215c59f6&f=111
Ric
Thanks, Ric, can always count on you for answers!!!
Lana, when I lived in Asheville I made bamboo fencing and trellis out of large bamboo like that. My best cutting tool ended up being a Japanese saw, one that cuts on the pull stroke...
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20054989,00.html
Lowe's and HD sell one for around $20. Of course it's not nearly as good as the real deal but perfect for that use...
I can tell you the only time you want to use loppers is on the trimming stage.
And they will dull FAST!
Lopping crushes the canes starting cracks.
We cure ours for about 3-5 weeks.
Cut only the mature 3 year+ canes.
The others won't last. It may grow fast but it's weak growth initially.