The frequency of watering a bamboo plant depends entirely on the species. The common houseplant known as “Lucky Bamboo” is not a true bamboo; it is Dracaena sanderiana, a member of the asparagus family, often grown in water. True bamboo is a fast-growing grass always grown in soil, whether in a pot or in the ground. Because these two plants have vastly different needs, their watering regimens are not interchangeable, and mistaking one for the other can quickly lead to plant failure.
Watering Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Lucky Bamboo is most frequently cultivated hydroponically, meaning its roots are submerged in water rather than soil. The main goal in this setup is to maintain water quality and ensure the roots remain covered. You should check the water level weekly and top it off with fresh water to keep the roots fully submerged, but avoid covering the entire stalk, as this can encourage rot.
A complete water change is necessary every one to two weeks to prevent stagnation and the buildup of algae or mineral deposits. When changing the water, gently clean the container and any decorative pebbles or stones. This routine maintenance prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can lead to root rot. Use water that is at room temperature, as extremely cold or hot water can shock the plant.
This approach of regular replacement and topping off mimics the plant’s tropical habitat where it receives fresh, clean water consistently. Environmental factors such as warmer temperatures or bright, indirect light increase the rate of water evaporation. Consequently, plants in sunnier or warmer spots may require more frequent topping off.
Watering Soil-Grown Bamboo (True Grass Species)
True bamboo, including running and clumping varieties, requires deep, thorough watering, but it also needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Instead of adhering to a strict schedule, the frequency of watering should be dictated by the moisture level of the soil. You can perform a simple “finger test” by inserting your index finger about one to two inches deep into the soil.
If the soil feels dry at that depth, it is time to water; if it still feels moist, wait a few days before checking again. When watering, apply water slowly until it runs out of the container’s drainage holes, ensuring the entire root ball is saturated. For in-ground bamboo, the goal is a deep soaking that penetrates at least eight to twelve inches into the soil.
Deep watering encourages the development of a robust root system, unlike frequent, shallow watering which promotes only surface roots. During the active growing season (spring and summer) or in periods of high heat and wind, watering may be necessary three to five times per week. Conversely, during cooler months or the dormant season, frequency can be reduced to once every seven to ten days. Potted bamboo needs more frequent watering than in-ground plants because the limited soil volume dries out faster.
Choosing the Right Water Source
The chemical composition of the water is important for both Lucky Bamboo and true bamboo, as they are sensitive to common tap water additives. Chlorine, a disinfectant added to municipal water supplies, can be detrimental to the plant’s cells and disrupt nutrient uptake. To mitigate this, let tap water sit in an open container for 24 hours before use, allowing the chlorine gas to dissipate.
Fluoride, found in many municipal water sources, is particularly damaging to Dracaena sanderiana. Unlike chlorine, fluoride does not evaporate and accumulates in the plant’s tissues, often manifesting as brown, crispy leaf tips. Because of this sensitivity, using distilled water, filtered water, or rainwater is recommended for both types of bamboo, especially for Lucky Bamboo grown hydroponically. Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can leave white, crusty residues on the stalks and containers, interfering with nutrient absorption.
Recognizing Signs of Watering Stress
Observing the foliage provides the clearest indication of whether the watering regimen needs adjustment. The leaves of true bamboo will curl lengthwise into a tight “V” shape when the plant is not receiving enough water. This leaf curling is a defense mechanism to reduce the surface area exposed to the air, minimizing water loss through transpiration.
Conversely, signs of overwatering in soil-grown bamboo include general yellowing of the foliage and the appearance of mushy, rotting new canes. For Lucky Bamboo, overwatering in soil or stagnant water causes the stalks to turn soft and discolored near the base, a clear sign of root rot. Yellowing leaves can indicate either overwatering or poor water quality, but brown leaf tips are most commonly associated with fluoride toxicity or low humidity.