A rapidly renewing and sustainable resource, having the potential to achieve full growth within a single growing season. Relatively easy to grow and harvest, as it does not require much water, the use of pesticides and fertilizers, or any heavy equipment. Unlike traditional hardwood trees, as bamboo is harvested it continues growing. Suitable for harvest in 3-7 years (hardwood trees can take 25-70 years to reach maturity). Bamboo has better tensile and compression strengths than steel, is harder than Red Oak or Maple, and has a greater resistance to expansion and contraction than similar materials.