The popular houseplant known as “Lucky Bamboo” is actually Dracaena sanderiana, a species of tropical water lily. This resilient plant is prized for its low-maintenance reputation. While it can thrive in various indoor settings, its health and longevity depend primarily on the quality and frequency of watering. The care regimen differs substantially depending on whether the plant is rooted in soil or grown hydroponically in water.
Watering Frequency for Soil-Grown Plants
When Dracaena sanderiana is planted in soil, it requires a traditional watering approach with careful attention to drainage. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged, as poor drainage leads to root rot. Watering frequency should be based on the plant’s actual moisture needs, not a calendar schedule.
Check the soil moisture by inserting a finger about an inch deep into the potting mix. If the soil feels dry at this depth, water the plant thoroughly until water flows freely out of the drainage holes.
Allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings ensures the roots receive necessary oxygen and prevents disease. After watering, empty any excess water that collects in the saucer beneath the pot to prevent the roots from sitting in stagnant moisture.
Maintaining Water Levels in Hydroponic Setups
Many people grow Dracaena sanderiana solely in a container of water, often using decorative pebbles for support. This hydroponic routine involves two distinct actions: maintaining the water level and completely replacing the water. The water level must always be high enough to fully submerge the roots, typically one to two inches above the base of the stalks.
Water evaporates over time, so you must top up the container periodically to ensure the roots remain covered. However, simply adding water is not enough for long-term health; the water must be fully replaced every 7 to 10 days.
Stagnant water quickly becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and algae, which can lead to stalk rot. When changing the water, rinse the container and any decorative pebbles thoroughly to remove residue. Regular replacement also removes waste products excreted by the roots.
Essential Water Quality Considerations
Dracaena sanderiana is particularly sensitive to chemical additives commonly found in municipal tap water, which can stress the plant’s tissues and hinder its growth. Specifically, the plant reacts negatively to both chlorine and fluoride.
Chlorine, added as a disinfectant, can damage root cells and cause leaf burn. To remove chlorine, pour tap water into an open container and let it sit uncovered for 24 hours before use, allowing the chemical to evaporate.
Fluoride is an ion that does not evaporate and builds up in the plant’s system over time. This accumulation often manifests as brown leaf tips and edges, a condition known as fluoride burn.
For the best long-term health, using distilled water, filtered water, or rainwater is highly recommended. If using filtered water, confirm the filter is designed to remove fluoride, as many standard household filters do not.
Troubleshooting Common Watering Issues
Visual cues from the plant are the best indicators of incorrect watering practices or poor water quality.
Yellowing
Yellowing of leaves or stalks is a common sign of distress. Yellow leaves often result from overwatering in soil, over-fertilization, or the presence of chlorine in the water. If the stalk turns soft, yellow, or mushy, it indicates severe root rot due to prolonged water stagnation or overly saturated soil.
Browning
Brown tips or edges on the leaves usually point toward mineral toxicity or dehydration. This browning is most often caused by the buildup of fluoride or other salts from tap water. If the plant is in soil, brown tips can also signal that the soil has dried out too much between waterings. If a stalk turns completely yellow or brown and becomes soft, remove it immediately to prevent the spread of rot to healthy stalks.