Dracaena sanderiana, commonly known as Lucky Bamboo, is a resilient and popular houseplant often associated with good fortune. Despite its common name, it is not a true bamboo species but a member of the Dracaena genus. Proper hydration is the single most important factor determining its long-term health. Getting the amount and type of water correct is paramount, whether the plant is displayed in a vase of water or rooted in potting soil.
Watering Lucky Bamboo Grown in Water
When Lucky Bamboo is grown in water, the water level should be just high enough to fully cover the roots and any decorative pebbles or stones used for support. This setup allows the plant to absorb what it needs without submerging the entire stalk, which can lead to decay.
Since the roots are constantly submerged, maintenance focuses on water quality. You should completely change the water every seven to ten days to prevent stagnation and the buildup of bacteria or algae. Simply topping off the water is insufficient, as this leaves behind harmful byproducts and minerals in the container. When changing the water, rinse the container, roots, and support material to remove any slimy residue before adding fresh water.
Watering Lucky Bamboo Grown in Soil
Growing Lucky Bamboo in soil requires a watering approach similar to that of most tropical houseplants. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged, which mimics the plant’s native environment. A well-draining potting mix is necessary to ensure excess moisture can escape and the roots can access oxygen.
Water thoroughly until the excess liquid begins to drain out of the pot’s bottom holes. Allow the top one to two inches of soil to become dry before watering again. Constantly saturated soil is a primary cause of root rot, where the roots decay and cannot transport water or nutrients. Monitoring the soil moisture by inserting a finger is more reliable than adhering to a fixed schedule.
Why Water Quality Matters
Lucky Bamboo is sensitive to the chemical composition of the water it receives, especially when grown hydroponically. The roots are intolerant of high concentrations of salts, minerals, and chemicals found in municipal water sources. Chlorine and fluoride are common culprits that can accumulate in the plant tissue and cause damage.
Tap water can often be mitigated by letting it sit in an open container for 24 hours, allowing chlorine to dissipate. However, this process does not remove fluoride, which is toxic to Dracaena sanderiana and causes leaf tip burn. For the plant’s best health and longevity, use filtered water, distilled water, or collected rainwater. These cleaner sources minimize chemical stress and prevent the buildup of mineral deposits.
Signs of Improper Hydration
Observing the plant’s appearance provides clear diagnostic clues about its hydration status. Overwatering, whether from stagnant vase water or oversaturated soil, often manifests as yellowing stalks or leaves. An overwatered plant may also develop a mushy, soft base, and the roots may turn dark or black as they begin to rot.
Conversely, underwatering causes the stalks to shrivel and appear wrinkled as they lose internal moisture. The leaf tips may turn pale or brown and become crispy due to a lack of water reaching the extremities. These symptoms indicate a need to adjust the frequency or amount of water provided.