Lucky Bamboo Care: From Water to Soil for Long-Term Health

Question

I was given a vase with three lucky bamboo stalks. They grew beautifully. Recently one smaller stalk turned yellow and appears completely dead. How did one die while others (including the other small one) live? Should I leave it or remove it? I want my plant to live long!

Answer

Hi Rachel, Lucky Bamboo are novelty plants—seductively easy (just keep vase filled with water), but not that simple for long-term survival. They're not true bamboo but Dracaena cuttings rooted in water. Like any water-rooted cutting, they eventually need soil or they'll yellow and die from nutrient deficiency. Some root better and last longer than others.

Suggest: find a small pot just large enough for roots, barely cover roots with potting mix. Pot must have drainage. Remove and discard dead stem. Water thoroughly, then wait until top quarter of mix feels dry before watering again.

Lucky Bamboo does best on a moderately sunny windowsill with up to 3-4 hours direct sun daily.

I've written a Lucky Bamboo article I'll email free to anyone requesting at wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com.

Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC