Lucky bamboo care: watering, light and repotting
Also called ribbon dracaena · Dracaena sanderiana · Asparagaceae family
10 d in winter
How often to water the lucky bamboo?
Allow about 7 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 10 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Lives in water or soil. In water, change it every week and keep the roots submerged; it prefers soft water.
What light does it need?
The lucky bamboo likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to August, feeding every 2 months is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 1–3 ft (30 cm–1 m).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Yellowing stems
Cause: Hard water or direct sun. What to do: Switch to filtered water and keep it out of the sun.
Cloudy, smelly water
Cause: Water not changed. What to do: Rinse the roots and change the water every week.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the lucky bamboo?
About every 7 days in spring and summer, and every 10 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the lucky bamboo?
The lucky bamboo likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the lucky bamboo?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the lucky bamboo?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the lucky bamboo safe?
The lucky bamboo is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the lucky bamboo forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.