How to grow golden bamboo from cuttings?

Propagating golden bamboo (Phyllostachys aurea) from cuttings is quite straightforward! I've successfully expanded my bamboo grove this way:

The best method is culm (cane) cuttings taken in spring when new growth appears. Select healthy, year-old culms and cut sections with 2-3 nodes each. Remove leaves from lower nodes.

You can root in water or directly in soil. I prefer a well-draining potting mix with extra perlite. Plant cuttings horizontally or at a slight angle with nodes buried. Keep consistently moist but not soggy, with high humidity (cover with plastic dome).

Bottom heat around 75°F encourages rooting, which takes 4-8 weeks. Once rooted and showing new growth, gradually acclimate to normal conditions before planting out.

Important: Golden bamboo is running bamboo - always plant with root barriers unless you want it to spread!

Bamboo Garden propagation guide has detailed techniques!