Lucky Bamboo Care Instructions

According to feng shui, a lucky bamboo plant is a symbol of luck, success, and fortitude. It is said to be the luckiest, when received as a gift. However, anyone can buy these plants, and adorn their home. Apart from the luck factor, it is really easy to take care of this plant.

Even though it is known across the globe as lucky bamboo, this plant is not a true bamboo. In fact, it is a species of the genus Dracaena, and its scientific name is Dracaena sanderiana (also known as Dracaena braunii).

This plant is native to some parts of Africa and Asia, and is mostly found in the rainforests of these regions. Propagation is through stem cuttings, that can be grown in water or soil. Lucky bamboos can thrive in almost all indoor conditions, and require less maintenance.

Lucky Bamboo Care Tips

Even though this plant is considered non-messy, it does not mean that you can ignore it totally. A little bit of care regarding its location, light conditions, water, and nutrient requirements, is unavoidable.

• Always buy a healthy plant. The leaves should be green and fresh, and the plant should not have any bad odor. A healthy plant will have reddish roots, and healthy green shoots.

• You can grow a lucky bamboo plant in water or in soil. Choose a container, that is at least two inches taller than the plant. Place pebbles or other decorative stones at the bottom, so that the roots get some support to grow. Add some water to the container, but make sure that the water level is just below the upper layer of stones.

• If you want to grow the plant in soil, use a potting mix that contains equal parts of sand, peat moss, and soil. This medium ensures good drainage.

• Keep the plant away from direct sunlight, and AC or heater vents. Extreme hot or cold condition is not good for lucky bamboo plants. It is better to place them in locations with lots of indirect sunlight. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65 to 70°F.

• Filtered water is preferred for this plant, especially for those, which are grown in water. You may use distilled or drinking water too. However, tap water may contain chemicals, that may harm the plant.

• In case, you are growing this plant in water, make sure to change the water every week. Wash the plant and stones too.
• If the plant is grown in soil, watering should be done at regular intervals. The soil must always be maintained in a slightly moist condition.

• If you find your lucky bamboo plant leaves getting yellow, it could be due to too much direct sunlight. Even the chemicals in tap water may cause the condition.
• Though this plant does not require feeding, you may use a diluted plant food occasionally.

Hope the above said tips help you in growing these plants in your home, and bring you lots of good luck.