The decorative houseplant commonly known as Lucky Bamboo is actually a member of the Dracaena genus, scientifically named Dracaena sanderiana. Despite its misleading name, this plant is a tropical shrub native to West Africa, not a true bamboo species. Its popularity as an indoor plant is due to its low maintenance requirements and its association with good fortune in Feng Shui. Determining the proper watering routine for this plant depends entirely on the material it is growing in.
Understanding the Growing Medium
The watering method for Dracaena sanderiana varies significantly based on whether it is cultivated in a hydroponic setup or planted in a traditional potting mix. Most Lucky Bamboo plants are sold growing in a vase filled with water and pebbles, which is the hydroponic style. In this setup, the plant’s roots are constantly submerged, and the primary care action is water replacement rather than watering itself.
When planted in soil, the care shifts to managing moisture levels to mimic the plant’s natural, well-drained environment. Both methods are viable for the plant’s long-term health, but they require fundamentally different approaches to hydration. Over-saturation in soil or stagnant water can quickly lead to health issues.
Watering When Grown in Water
For water-grown setups, the focus is on maintaining a fresh, clean environment for the roots. The water level should cover the root mass, typically extending one to two inches up the stalk base. Simply topping off the water is insufficient, as minerals and bacterial byproducts accumulate over time.
The entire volume of water should be completely changed every one to two weeks to prevent stagnation and algae growth. When changing the water, gently rinse the container and any decorative pebbles to remove buildup. This regular replacement ensures the roots have access to oxygenated water and discourages root rot.
Watering When Grown in Soil
When Lucky Bamboo is cultivated in soil, the goal is to keep the potting mix consistently moist but never waterlogged. Allowing the roots to sit in saturated soil restricts oxygen and causes root rot. A well-draining potting mix is necessary to ensure excess water can escape easily.
To determine when to water, check the soil moisture using the “finger test.” Insert a finger one to two inches deep; if the soil feels dry at that depth, water the plant thoroughly. This usually means watering every seven to ten days, depending on the ambient temperature and humidity. Always ensure the pot has drainage holes so water flows out.
Water Quality and Common Issues
The type of water used is a significant factor in the long-term health of Dracaena sanderiana, regardless of the growing medium. This plant is sensitive to chemicals in municipal tap water, specifically chlorine and fluoride. Chlorine damages root cells, while fluoride builds up in the plant’s tissues, leading to leaf tip burn.
To avoid chemical damage, distilled water, filtered water, or fresh rainwater are the recommended choices. If tap water must be used, chlorine can be allowed to evaporate by leaving the water in an open container for 24 hours before use. This method does not remove fluoride, which commonly causes brown or yellowing leaf tips. Soft, mushy stalks are a sign of root rot, caused by overwatering in soil or stagnant water in a vase.