Charcoal is produced by heating wood or other flammable substances in the absence of oxygen. You might have heard all about charcoal from wood but bamboo charcoal is a unique material. Bamboo is a stubborn yet beautiful plant that thrives in most soils. Most people try a lot of bamboo removal methods to eliminate the plant. However, only a few gardeners know that their most resilient crop can be a source of bamboo charcoal. This charcoal is important for various reasons. Let’s explore some household uses.
- To eliminate odors
Bamboo charcoal does not mask odors, rather it helps to remove them. Its porous structure gives bamboo charcoal the ability to absorb moisture, odors and polluted particles from the air. You can use this in the home as a deodorizer for the fridge, bathroom, bedroom, and even footwear. The charcoal can also be placed in the air filter to absorb toxic materials.
- Purifies water
Bamboo charcoal is used to soften hard water and remove impurities. It is suitable for use as an aquarium filter or in drinking water. You can also place a few pieces of bamboo charcoal in an aquarium for decorative purposes. This way they serve two functions in one.
- Balance soil moisture
Some soils hold excess water which makes them unsuitable for plant growth. Rather than give up on the soil, you can solve the situation with bamboo charcoal. When placed in soil, the charcoal absorbs the excess moisture. To maintain balance, the water is released into the soil when it reaches dryness. This guarantees better aeration for plants.
- Skincare routine
In the beauty and skincare industry, bamboo charcoal has also being recognized. It is highly beneficial for exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells. Its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties help to treat skin problems like acne. Bamboo charcoal is gentle and retains the natural moisture of the skin during use. You can purchase bamboo charcoal-based soaps to enjoy these benefits.
How to get bamboo charcoal
If you grow the grass in your garden, then you can produce bamboo charcoal. Start by digging a hole the size of an old barrel. Ensure that the barrel has holes for airflow then place it in the dug space. Pour a small amount of fuel in the barrel and fill with the bamboo. Set the plant on fire and let it burn completely. Afterward, cover with a large steel pot until the fire burns out. Don’t touch the bamboo until it cools.
I’m not local to New Jersey; however, I do live by the coast. Does living in certain areas of the country affect bamboo growth. For example, if I was going to add bamboo trees to my property would they not grow because I live next to the sea?
When making bamboo charcoal do you simply burn a bamboo plant and then the ash can be used as charcoal? Also, is there a place where I could buy this type of charcoal and does it burn better?
Check out https://oceanviewbamboo.com/ocean-salt-air-tolerant-bamboos/ for ocean and Salt Air tolerant varieties of bamboo
How to make bamboo charcoal at home: https://aaapirateblacksmith.com/2012/07/27/bamboo-charcoal-making/