Following a great deal of research, I interviewed six companies for bamboo removal, two of which specialize in this messy and complicated business. Bamboo is extremely invasive and fast-growing, and can easily send roots under a house, into the foundation, or into water or sewage lines. Given the seriousness of the problem, I resolved to go with the most qualified company, with less attention to price.
Gary Ortega, the owner of Valley Tree Care, seemed to be the most capable and reliable of all the individuals I interviewed. He assessed the situation quickly and accurately. He presented me with the most comprehensive, detailed and effective plan for removing the rhizomes (roots) and for following up after the job was completed. Moreover, he consulted with both an arborist and a bamboo specialist to verify and refine the plan.
I decided to go with Gary, Sergio, Juli and their team in despite their lack expertise in bamboo. I was not disappointed.
Valley's six men showed up early and removed all vestiges of bamboo, keeping surrounding foliage intact while taking out unwanted shoots and rhizomes. Gary provided me with advice on preventing the bamboo from reappearing. He also described a "bamboo barrier" that he would install in case of another "invasion."
In the end, to my astonishment, the amount they charged was considerably lower than the estimates I received from all the other companies. Remember: I chose them on the basis of competence, not price.
I was impressed with all aspects of Valley Tree Care's service and support. They are your "go to" for tree service, landscaping, lawn care, and tree removal; you will not be disappointed.