Bamboo is moving outside, which makes sense, since that's where it originated anyway. A popular alternative wood for interior flooring and countertops, bamboo also is an ideal sustainable wood to use for exterior fencing, furniture and deck tiling.

Bamboo Hardwoods, based in Seattle, Wash., recently introduced a line of outdoor bamboo deck tiles designed for use on decks, patios and balconies, as well as for garden paths. The tiles consist of precision-cut split bamboo rods, which are sanded, finished and mounted on perforated hard plastic bases designed to interlock for easy assembly. The 12-by-12-inch tiles are waterproof and priced at $5 apiece. For more information or to view Bamboo Hardwoods' complete line of bamboo products, visit http://www.bamboohardwoods.com or call 206-264-2414.