Question
My bamboo plant, which is about 12" tall is starting to turn brown/yellow.  I cut off the first sprout that was damaged...now the 2nd one looks bad... ???   Thanks!

Answer
Hi Lois,

I assume you have a lucky bamboo. Lucky bamboo are not actually bamboo. They are Dracaena sanderiana cuttings rooting in water. Like most cuttings, they need fresh water periodically and they will grow roots in the water. If your local water is on the hard or alkaline side, then switch to distilled or filtered water. Although they will live for a long time in water, in most cases the new growth weakens considerably after a year or so.

If you want yours to live a long time, it is best to plant them in a small pot of soil before they start to deteriorate.

They do best in bright indirect light and warm temperatures above 60 degrees. To control height it is best to prune them back periodically anywhere along the thinner stems that grow out of the thicker canes. New growth will emerge and grow up from a point just below where you make the pruning cuts. The pruned off portion can then be rooted in water to make new plants.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]