Thrifty five years ago, Guadua Atlantica (originally from Brazil) was introduced to this region to be used in the banana plantations as support for the heavy bunches of bananas. Eventually, bamboo was replaced with nylon for support causing more contamination due to the fact that nylon is not biodegradable and was not recycled. Later, some of the banana plantations in this area were forced to move because of a banana disease, bad administration, and shift of prices in the world market.

Today, while the number of banana plantations have decreased in this area, the number of bamboo planted has increased to 170 hectares. In fact, this is the location of the first bamboo nursery in connection with Funbambu. The main species on the plantation are Guadua Atalntica and Guadua Sur. However, 25 species are planted in the botanical garden called "Bambusetum" for visitors to admire as well. Some of these species include the two varieties of Guadua, Phyllostachys angusta and aurea, Dendrocalamus asper and latiflorus, and a mix of ornamental bamboos.

Preservation Mechanism at Guapiles.

The main bamboo attraction in Guapiles is the Experimental Center "Los Diamantes". This center is in the process of doing a variety of experimental work for sustainability Some of their projects include a fish farm, pig farm, cattle project, and agricultural experimentation. Along with these projects, Los Diamantes has a project with Funbambu. Here, bamboo is planted, harvested, treated, and then used mainly for construction and furniture. At the center, original pieces of furniture are made out of bamboo including tables, beds, swings, and decorative lamps among other things.

There you can visit the bamboo plantation and the warehouse where cut bamboo is stored and preserved and then watch how workers turn culms into furniture before your eyes.