Lucky Bamboo Black Stems: Rot from Overwatering and Poor Water Quality

Lucky bamboo in pebbles/vase has black spots on stems; roots look fine. Expert: first, smell the plant—bad odor means rot. For water culture: vase 2" wider than plant; water level at top of pebbles. Wash plant, pebbles, change water weekly. Clean vase to remove mineral deposits. Use pure/distilled water—tap fluoride harms bamboo. For soil: equal parts sand, peat, soil; keep damp, saturate fully when watering. Bright indirect light; no direct sun.

Black Stem Causes

• Stagnant water → bacterial/fungal rot.
• Tap water fluoride/toxins.
• No weekly water change.

Fix the environment; healthy stems stay green.