Growing and Caring Tips for Lucky Bamboo

Lucky Bamboo botanically called “Dracaena sanderiana” are a must-buy if you want to be surrounded by rays of positivity. They are common household plants symbolising good luck and can also help with reducing stress and anxiety. But how do you take care of these plants which fight negative vibes and fill your space with just good vibes? Bamboo plants are relatively low-maintenance and they thrive well if you just ensure to take care of them and follow the steps mentioned below.

Plump for the right container:

Bamboo plants always come in a container filled with pebbles, when you buy or receive them. But thinking why you should transfer to another suitable container? It’s because your plant may outgrow its original container at a point and that’s when they need to be transferred to a bigger container to sustain its further growth. Clean the container every few months and change the water.

Decide if you want to nurture it in soil or water:

Bamboo can grow on both water and soil. But we would say that it’s quite easier to develop on water filled with pebbles. However, the ball is in your court and it’s your decision to make!

• If you choose soil. Choose a rich potting mix and well-drained soil. Ensure to keep the soil moist but not soaking. Use fertilizers if necessary. Stacking some pebbles to the bottom of the pot can keep them well-drained.

• If you choose water. Make sure to jam the container with pebbles or marbles to stabilize it in the bottom. It should at least be filled with 3-8 cm of water to maintain the plant’s health. Use filtered or distilled water if your tap water contains more fluoride. Fluoride is toxic to bamboo plants. Opting for filtered water over tap water can keep the roots moist and healthy. 

Shower it with plenty of light.

Though these bamboo plants can grow in indirect or low light, growing them under bright sunlight can make them grow longer and can increase their longevity.

The problem with pests.

Lucky bamboo can be affected by fungal infections that look like grey fuzz. Just remove the affected part and rub the stalks with alcohol. This plant commonly gets affected by pests like mealy bugs and mites. Though mites don’t impose a danger to this lucky bamboo, there are chances that the mites can spread to your other plants. So check regularly and remove mites by using water and dishwashing soap. 

Treat with fertilizer.

Using a weak liquid fertilizer every month if grown in soil will suffice. If grown in water, use it once in two months.

Know when they’re sick.

Not sure if they are keeping well or not? If you notice a colour change from green to yellow, it indicates that they’re sick and need attention. All you have to do is to remove the yellow part of the leaf or stem to keep other healthy leaves safe. Brown leaves indicate that they need filtered water and humid air. Mushy stalks indicate that the roots are dead and the plant is beyond saving. But, if there’s even one fresh stem left, you could try growing it but in a different pot, with filtered water and a new set of pebbles.

Pruning Tips.

Ensure pruning to keep your bamboo plant healthy. Do not cut the main stalk of the lucky bamboo, instead sever the offshoots. To attain a bushier plant, cut back to one or two inches from the main stem. If you don’t prefer a bushier plant, and just want it to look the same, then cut the end and dip it in paraffin as this prevents further growth.

The temperature they love.

They can thrive in any temperature between 18-35 °C but you must be a bit more cautious during the winter. Never let them sit on an open window pane or at any place where they’ll be exposed to the cold winds.

The lifetime of this plant is around one to two years even if you’ve given your best to take care of them. However, there are chances for them to stay alive for a few more years if potted in soil. The benefits of this lucky plant include improving focus, enhancing mood, and promoting a sense of calmness in your environment. 

Buy the finest bamboo plants from anywhere in India. We are located in Coimbatore and we’ll be happy to have a plant parent.