Question
Hi, I have one of those bamboo "good luck" plants about 30 inches high, in my office very near flourescent ceiling lighting.  About a month or so ago some leaves began to fade somewhat and become spotty looking.  There isn't anything on the back of the leaf, and I've maintained water level.  I thought it needed more natural sun so I placed it on my window facing east where sun only comes in about an hour a day.  Can you shed any light on what's going on or what I should do?  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Gail

Water for Lucky Bamboo and Lotus Bamboo
Tap water is sufficient if chlorine levels are low. It is best if you leave a pitcher of tap water sitting out overnight to let the chlorine evaporate before watering your plant the next day. Unfortunately, fluoride does not evaporate and it is toxic to Dracaena plants. If fluoride levels are high in your tap water, it is recommended that you use a non-fluoridated water source such as bottled water.

NUTRIENTS: Lucky Bamboo is pretty hardy, and often grows happily for years just in pure water, but it may need some kind of food eventually. If your plant gets spindly and pale after you抳e had it for a while, try moving it a little closer to a light source and give it some very diluted plant food. However, if it turns yellow shortly after you bring it home that抯 usually a sign it was over-fertilized before you purchased it. Change the water immediately, and don抰 fertilize at all for several months. kathy