Question
My wife loves "Lucky Bamaboo" but we have never been able to grow any.  We have put them in dark, in light near  window, small pots, large pots, even put them in soil...put they never have  grown.  Then turn yellow and the leaves fall off etc.  Please we need help.......

Answer
Hi Jules,

Lucky bamboo are not actually bamboo. They are Dracaena sanderiana cuttings. Like most cuttings, they need fresh water periodically and they will grow roots in the water. Although they will live for a long time in water, in most cases the new growth weakens considerably and leaves begin to yellow after a year or less. Water quality, especially hard water, can adversely affect this plant.

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. Make sure that you use a pot that is barely larger than the roots and use a peat-based potting mix. The pot must have drainage holes.

Allow the top half inch of soil to dry out before watering.

They do best in bright indirect light and warm temperatures above 60 degrees. Right on a north or east windowsill is a good location.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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

Visit my web site at www.HorticulturalHelp.com

If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.