Gifting a bamboo plant is considered to bring good luck. It is among the most popular indoor plants which can be seen in offices, homes and gift stores. However, did you know that despite its name, the ‘lucky’ bamboo is not actually ‘true’ bamboo? Yes, you read that right! It is actually a tropical plant called Dracaena sanderiana. The plant is noted for its resilience and association with good luck. As per Feng Shui, the plant brings positive energy. Though it is a low-maintenance plant, many times we notice the plant dies. It does need proper care to keep it healthy and green. So if you are someone who is struggling to keep their lucky bamboo alive, here we share some tips and tricks which will help you:The right light It is important to understand that bamboo needs bright but indirect light. Keeping it under direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and soon they’ll turn yellow. So the perfect spot would be close to a window where it can be bathed under indirect and filtered sunlight. And if you keep it in a dark corner, the growth may slow down and the plant will eventually lose its green colour. It can grow perfectly well under artificial indoor lighting, which makes it a perfect pick for offices and flats.The most important factor: Water qualityThe quality of water that is being put in the bamboo is extremely important in bamboo care. Understand that this particular plant is sensitive to chemicals which are found in normal tap water (chlorine and fluoride mostly).If you want your lucky bamboo to stay healthy:Put filtered water only. RO water works.If using tap water, let it sit uncovered for 24 hours before use so chlorine can evaporate.Keep the roots submerged in about 2–3 cm of water, and not more than that.Also change the water once every 7–10 days to prevent algae growth. If you are growing in soil:The soil should remain only slightly moist.Make sure the pot has proper drainage holes.Water only when soil feels dry to the touch.Temperature Lucky bamboo thrives in temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. It is the most suitable temperature in Indian homes mostly. Avoid sudden change in temperature. Air conditioners, or heaters can stress the plant. Humidity is not much of an issue for bamboo. FertilisationThe plant does not need frequent feeding and asks minimal care. Avoid over fertilising the plant. Use a diluted liquid fertiliser once every 1–2 months. Remember, never fertilise a stressed or yellowing plant.Maintenance
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Regular pruning keeps lucky bamboo healthy and happy. Keep trimming yellow or damaged leaves. To control height, cut the stalk just above a node.Keep the container or pot clean all the time.If the leaves are yellow, it usually indicates poor water quality and too much sunlight exposure. Brown tips are often caused by dry air.Your bamboo is lucky. All you need to do is understand its basic needs like indirect sunlight, temperatures, and less fertiliser.
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