Thanks Annie, appreciate your reply. I read about your bent battens and agree the larger size is probably best, but not the cost. I decided to go back to basics and try bamboo! I cut 10 pieces today and will see how the drying goes. I'm using a traditional method favored by peasants so should be a good fit. If it works great, I'll see in a month!
* Post-harvesting transpiration is a technique used by peasants or indigenous communities. The procedure takes place on the bamboo plantation, and does not only dry the bamboo stems, it is also a traditional way to preserve bamboo from insect infestation.
The freshly cut bamboo stems are placed on a stone (to avoid soil contact). The stem is placed upright, leaning against another bamboo tree with branches and leaves attached for about 3-4 weeks. This way, bamboo stems lose their humidity progressively true natural ventilation and transpiration true the leaves.
I couldn't find any stones so I used some frisbees I had in my truck, should make the cut poles easier to find as well. I'll let you know how it goes...