When I first started experimenting with Chinese bamboo, I bought a bunch, opened the thread that tied them together, and tried to leave them free. They refused to stand straight, and kept falling over. So, I made smaller bundles - again it was no go. They just refused to survive.This second attempt, is proving more successful, at least till now - I'd got them on my DD's birthday, 20th January. I've learnt that it is only when they remain tied to each other that they grow. Now there are sprouts from lower down on the stems, and in themselves too, the plants are growing. They need a spot of TLC (tender loving care), but they seem to be alive and well.