Lucky bamboo, information, and care tips

Lucky bamboo – Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) has become an increasingly popular plant due to its striking appearance and ornamental value. Although its name would suggest that it originated in China, it is a species native to Africa.

Even if we find the word “bamboo” in its name, Dracaena sanderiana belongs to another taxonomic order, completely different from the real bamboo. Lucky bamboo is not a bamboo, it is a plant belonging to the genus Dracaena.

Other examples of plants belonging to the genus Dracaena:

  • Dracaena deremensis;
  • Dracaena fragrans;
  • Dracaena marginata.
light-lucky-bamboo

Lucky Bamboo – Environmental conditions

Light. Lucky bamboo enjoys strong but filtered sun. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause sunburn. They are more tolerant of low light. However, if the plant begins to elongate (etiolate) or the color becomes less intense, you may consider placing it in a brighter location. Rotate the plant frequently to ensure that light reaches the plant evenly.

temperature-humidity-lucky-bamboo

Temperature and humidity. These plants prefer higher temperatures between 18 °C – 32 °C. Plants are sensitive to air currents (hot or cold).

Avoid placing near heat sources or air conditioning. Air humidity should be average, around 50%.

Substrate. Lucky bamboo grows well in a well-drained, nutrient-rich substrate or in a pot with water (where decorative pebbles of suitable sizes can be added). The substrate must be water-repellent, but not waterlogged. In the case of lucky bamboo grown directly in water, it is recommended to have at least 1-2 cm of water at all times. The water used should be non-limy, as the plant is very sensitive to hard water. You can use bottled water or leave tap water for 24 hours in an open container before use.

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Fertilization-bamboo

Lucky Bamboo – Care Tips

Fertilization. Plants grown in substrate can be fertilized each month using a smaller amount of fertilizer. Plants grown directly in water can be fertilized with a less concentrated fertilizer every two months. Healthy lucky bamboo roots are red, so there is no cause for concern if you notice red roots in the glass container. Rtu (ready-to-use) fertilizers can be used for these plants, applied by foliar spraying.

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Transplantation. Transplanting is usually only done when the roots have filled the pot/glass vase in spring.

Propagation. Lucky bamboo easily propagates through seedlings. The stumps can be taken from the top of the stem. Pieces of the stem should be about 10-15 cm long. Put the cuttings in clean water or moist soil in a bright place, but out of direct sunlight. The roots will emerge in about 2-3 weeks.

Pests

Aphids may appear, their presence being observed by the presence of sticky secretions on the leaves. It can also be affected by mealybugs or mites.

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In order to detect the presence of pests (flies, aphids, thrips, etc.) in time and to be able to apply a treatment at an early stage of the attack, the use of sticky traps is also recommended.

Recommended products

Read carefully and follow the instructions on the label of each product

Algae growth

algae-lucky-bamboo

Light is the main factor causing algae to appear in the vessel. Removal and prevention of algae growth is achieved by regular sanitising (at the time of water change) with warm water and liquid detergent. If algae continue to appear, consider using an opaque container. This will prevent sunlight from stimulating algae growth.

In addition:

  • Lucky bamboo is often associated with prosperity in feng shui. Placing it in different areas of your home or office can bring good luck.
  • To continue the spiral growth of the plant, it is recommended to rotate the plant periodically in a clockwise direction.
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