Why do my lucky bamboo leaves turn yellow - fix

Is your lucky bamboo turning yellow? You can potentially lose it if you do not take immediate actions to save it.

Lucky bamboo plants are not related in any way to the running or clumping bamboos, but rather one of the 40 cultivated species of the Dracaena group of plants. They are native to the Pacific Islands, especially Papua New Guinea, South East Asia and parts of Africa.

How to revive lucky bamboo turning yellow?

Lucky bamboo plants are tropical plants. 

Generally, they are resilient to high temperatures, humidity and pests in the wild. But, several factors can affect their growth indoors. 

We discuss the five common ones towards the end of this article. First, here is how to revive a lucky bamboo plant in 3 steps if it turns yellow.

You will need:

• Candle wax
• Aloe vera
• Pair of secateurs
• Fresh/distilled water
• Plants rooting powder

Image credit: @Twitter

Step 1 – Prepping lucky bamboo stalks

Separate the dying yellow lucky bamboo. Use the pair of secateurs to tidy up the stalks and yellow leaves. 

Then, dip both the top & bottom ends of the cut lucky bamboo stalks in candle wax to prevent rotting. Then, place 3 to 5 stalks in the ‘growing medium’.

Step 2 – Making growth mixture

After that, create a growth-boosting mixture by mixing equal amounts of aloe vera gel and plant rooting powder. 

Add the mixture into the ‘growing medium’. 

Then, add water. (Aloe vera gel and plant rooting powder are ideal for reviving dying plants. They are rich in nutrients the new plants need to grow)

Buy rooting powder at YouGarden

Step 3 – Reviving lucky bamboo turning yellow

The potted plants are in the medium are ready. 

Finally, put them in a shaded area. The plants should show signs of new healthy plants after the first week.

Best way to revive a lucky bamboo turning yellow

Image: @Twitter

Use either fresh rainwater or distilled water when replanting lucky bamboo, and when replenishing water in the pots. 

Do not use tap water as it contains chlorine which tends to disturb the growth of new roots and shoots. 

Prep the stalks neatly, and use rooting hormone and aloe vera to promote growth. Also, use a candle to stop the stems from rotting. 

The chance of lucky bamboo plants surviving is slim if the stalks have turned golden yellow, and become squishy and wrinkling. This is the point of no return. 

Separate the plant, and take action as soon as the leaves and stems turn yellow, and before the stalks turn from green to yellow.

How long before lucky bamboo plants recover?

As mentioned, the running bamboo will regenerate after 7, some quicker. But all in all, signs of new growth are eminent within the two weeks. 

After that, you can re-pot the plant or leave them to grow in the ‘growing medium’.

In a case where you do not see any activity, the best thing to do is to give the plants time to grow. Check the water and any signs of rotting in the stems.

Read about the best practices for growing lucky bamboo plants in water, soil and gravel.

Why is lucky bamboo turning yellow?

There are several reasons why lucky bamboo leaves and stalks turn yellow. Below are the 5 common reasons why the yellowing of leaves happens.

Lucky bamboo leaves often turn yellow due to the lack of one (or more of) these plants’ growth needs. 

They are important for the lucky bamboo to grow.

1. Freshwater

Use rainwater or distilled water. Lucky bamboo does not like warm water. Ensure that the water temperature remains consistent at room temperature, 20 - 25 degrees Celcius is ideal.

2. Sun

Place your lucky bamboo where it receives a good dose of filtered sunlight to regulate photosynthesis. They are tolerant to shade, but not to direct sunlight.

3. Improve humidity

Indoor air is often dry, it lacks good water content. In fact, lucky bamboo loves high humidity in the highs of 50%. 

Let fresh air indoors. This will improve transpiration which is vital for the plant's natural colours.

4. Check the indoor room temperature

Indoor temperature is higher where there are electrical appliances. Like in 3 (humidity), the indoor temperature is vital for the houseplants. 

The heat emitted by electrical appliances can affect the lucky bamboo plants. Check the indoor temperature if your plants show signs of distress.

5. Prevent rotting bamboo stalks

The lucky bamboo stalks will rot (where they are cut) when dipped in water. This is often the main cause of yellow leaves in lucky bamboo plants. 

To avoid this problem, seal the freshly cut stalks with candle wax. 

If a stalk turns yellow, it shows that it is not rooting. This is a dead plant and it should be removed and attended to immediately before it affects the other plants. 

Use the 5 tips to keep your lucky bamboo happy and stop the leaves from turning yellow. Prevention is better that cure.

Grow lucky bamboo plants

In a case where your bamboo has turned yellow, revive it by using the three steps we discussed in ‘How to revive lucky bamboo turning yellow?’ 

In an ideal situation, prevention is better than cure. Be sure to replenish the water so that it remains clear all the time. 

The bamboos are tropical plants. They will thrive in variable conditions. Attend to them immediately if you see any signs of distress in your plants.

Conclusion (Revive lucky bamboo turning yellow)

All in all, lucky bamboo plants are great indoor house plants. 

As a gardener, you need to provide them with the right condition for them to thrive. Knowing the 5 growth requirements is key to sustaining them. 

Use the 3 steps to revive lucky bamboo if the leaves turn yellow. You may like to know about the 10 facts about lucky bamboo plants. 

We hope this simple guide and best practices help you to revive your dying lucky bamboo plants.

Facts about lucky bamboo plants [Draceana sanderiana]

Lucky bamboo plants do not belong to the real bamboo family, Poaceae. They are related to the tropical water lily plants, scientifically called Draceana sanderiana. 

Its other names include Chinese Water Bamboo and Friendship Bamboo. 

These plants are versatile monocots with succulent stalks, which are completely different from hollow bamboo canes. 

They are native plants to the tropical regions of the South Pacific, Southeast Asia and parts of West Africa; and grow abundantly near streams or natural water pools. 

The lucky bamboo plants thrive in water and that’s why they are one of the top houseplants. 

They are traditionally given as gifts, symbolising success, health, goodness and wealth.

1. How fast do lucky bamboo plants grow?

Lucky bamboo is a relatively fast-growing plant. It can grow to 8 cm in a month, reaching its maximum height in one year.

2. How tall does lucky bamboo grow?

Lucky bamboo can grow to about 100 cm and spread 20 cm. But it also depends on whether the bamboo is growing in water, gravel or soil. Other indoor conditions can also affect its growth.

3. How long do lucky bamboo plants live?

It’s hard to say but like other indoor plants, its longevity depends entirely on the care they receive. The indoor bamboo plants can live up to 5 years where conditions are the best. 

Also, your plants can live longer if you re-pot them from water to soil.

4. What to do if lucky bamboo leaves and stalks turn yellow?

Separate the affected plants and re-grow them. 

Is your lucky bamboo turning yellow? You can potentially lose it if you do not take immediate actions to save it. 

The article gives clear instructions on How to revive dying Lucky Bamboo Plants in 3 easy steps.

See the link below on how to revive lucky bamboo plant leaves turning yellow.

 

5. Can I grow lucky bamboo in soil?

Absolutely, you can grow lucky bamboo in soil. You can also grow them in gravel and water.

6. What is the best way to propagate lucky bamboo?

The best (and probably) the only way to grow lucky bamboo is by using the ‘cuttings’.

7. Is lucky bamboo poisonous to cats?

Lucky bamboo is poisonous to cats and other pets when ingested. So, keep it out of reach of pet animals.

8. How can I grow lucky bamboo in water?

For best results, use distilled water and clear glass vases to grow lucky bamboo. Read about the best ways to grow them.

9. What is the difference between ‘propagating’ and ‘growing’ lucky bamboo?

These terms are used interchangeably, but propagating lucky bamboo refers to the initial phase of getting the plants to root and put out leaves before planting. 

Whereas, ‘growing’ is often used when re-potting (planting) a lucky bamboo that has already been rooted.

10. What is the ‘one thing’ I must do when planting lucky bamboo?

The top tip is to use distilled water every time whether you are propagating or growing lucky bamboo or replenishing water.

Why is lucky bamboo popular?

Though lucky bamboo plants are poisonous to cats, they are becoming popular, and it is easy to see why. 

They are fantastic indoor plants, undemanding and adored by traditional gardeners in many parts of the world. Their vibrant shiny green colour is hard to miss. 

They are such happy plants. They’ll grow where you put them.

How to grow lucky bamboo indoor plants

How to grow lucky bamboo indoor plants: Lucky bamboo symbolises the beauty of life. Traditionally, it is a symbol of hope. Today, they are one of the great house plants you can grow.

This article gives insight into the best practices on how to grow lucky bamboo plants in water, soil and gravel.

10 Bamboo Facts You Should Know (CLICK HERE).

How to grow healthy lucky bamboo from cuttings?

Lucky bamboo plants are visually appealing in glass vases, cover pots and containers. Traditionally, the stalks are cultivated in groups of 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 21. 

Each group symbolises hope and well-being. It is bad luck if the stalks are not planted in these symbolic groups. Here are the three ways to grow healthy lucky bamboo plants.

1. Can lucky bamboo grow in water?

Reassuringly, lucky bamboo plants thrive in water and it’s clear to see why they are popular vase plants. Follow these steps to grow or re-pot the bamboo plants.

• Firstly, separate the stalks carefully, and avoid ripping the roots and leaves.
• Place the stalks in a clear glass vase. Space them out evenly.
• Then, add distilled water and plant food. Add plant rooting powder if available to promote root growth.
• Place the glass vase away from direct sunlight until fresh roots and leaves appear.
• Move the plants to the ideal site when they’ve shown signs of growth. Now, enjoy your plants.

Top tip: Use a clear glass vase to plant lucky bamboo in water and enjoy the roots as they emerge and find their way around it. Replace the water when it becomes saturated (unclear). Use less tap water because of the presence of chlorine which can kill your plant. Feed the lucky bamboo with plant food occasionally, at least twice a year.

2. Can lucky bamboo grow in soil?

Lucky bamboo grows pretty well in well-drained soil. So, use well-drained potting soil. This is probably the best medium for growing healthy lucky bamboo when re-potting the old plants or propagating new ones. 

Use pots that can hold the lucky bamboo with good spacing in between the stalks. 

Water regularly because potting soils are well-aerated and tend to lose water very quickly.

• Firstly, get some regular cover pots that have holes at the bottom, and fill them with well-drained potting soil.
• Separate the lucky bamboo plants neatly.
• Put 2, 3 or 5 in pots. Space them out evenly so that they stand upright.
• Then, add distilled water. Do not overwater.
• Place the potted plants in a shaded location, away from direct sunlight, until the plants have shown signs of growth.
• Finally, move them to a designated site indoors. Do not move the plants around regularly as the movements can damage the plants.

Top tip: Lucky bamboo plants are not fussy plants. But they dislike waterlogged soil. So, when growing lucky bamboo in soil, use well-drained potting soil and water regularly.

3. Can lucky bamboo grow in gravel?

Absolutely, lucky bamboo also thrives in gravels, pebbles and rock chips.

• Firstly, find a clear glass vase, and fill it with enough gravel so that it can completely cover the roots.
• Put 2, 3 or 5 lucky bamboo stalks in the vase, and space them out evenly so that they stand upright. Then, add distilled water until it reaches the top of the gravel.
• Then, place the glass vase in a shaded site until the roots are well established. (Avoid placing the new plants in direct sunlight)
• Finally, move the bamboo plants to the desired location after signs of growth are visible.

Top tip: Wash the gravel thoroughly before using it. You can also use plant rooting powder to promote root and leaf growth. Generally, lucky bamboo plants do occasionally require plants feed, not more than twice a year. They are undemanding and will thrive in indoor conditions.

Buy lucky bamboo plants for sale

Get quality plants from UK retailers online. 

Yellowing of leaves and stalks is a sign that the lucky bamboo plant is under stress because of one (or more) of the following limitations. 

The five limitations are the common causes of stress in lucky bamboo plants.

• 1. Lack of freshwater
• 2. Direct sunlight
• 3. Low indoor humidity
• 4. High indoor temperature
• 5. Rotting stalks

Your plants will be happy if you can identify (and improve) the five limitations that inhabit the growth of lucky bamboos. 

Check the linked article, we cover the best conditions for thriving bamboo plants, so that you can minimise the yellowing of leaves and stalks. 

Grow lucky bamboo indoor plants

All in all, lucky bamboo plants are not fussy about where they grow or what medium they grow in. They are undemanding plants and will happily thrive in water, soil or gravel. 

To help the bamboo plants enjoy a stress-free environment, create a conducive indoor atmosphere. 

We hope this article helps you to grow your lucky bamboo. 

If you have any questions, leave a comment below. We’ll be happy to help.

3 best ways to propagate lucky bamboo plants at home

Lucky bamboo is a popular houseplant. But, keen growers are asking 'how can I propagate lucky bamboo plants? You will also need to know how to provide ongoing care for your bamboo plants.

There are 3 common ways to propagate a lucky bamboo plant.

Propagation by

• stem and shoot cuttings,
• separation (plant division) and
• seeds.

How can I take cuttings from lucky bamboo plants?

Before propagating lucky bamboo, take the cuttings either from the main stalks or side shoots. The lucky bamboo plant grows quicker from cutting than from the root separation and seeds.

• To take the cuttings from the main stalk, cut 3 – 5 cm away from the node. As for the new side shoots, take the cutting as close as you can to the main stalk, the new shoot will re-generate so you do not have to worry.
• Tidy up the first 2 – 4 sheaths along the cuttings to make way for the roots to germinate.
• Coat the freshly cut ends with candle wax to stop them from rotting.
• Now, the cuttings are ready for propagating in growing mediums.

How can I propagate stalk and shoot cuttings?

Lucky bamboo cuttings prepared above will thrive in water, soil and gravel. In this case, we’ll use soil as the propagating medium.

• Put cuttings in a growing pot.
• Add well-drained potting soil so that it covers 2 or 3 rooting nodes.
• Water generously, use distilled water.
• Set aside in a well-ventilated location where there is good indoor light.
• Water regularly for 7 to 14 days after planting until you see signs of growth.

Top tip. Always use distilled or rainwater as they are free from chlorine which is the main cause of rotting in these plants.

What is the difference between propagating and growing lucky bamboo plants? Take a look at the top 10 FAQs on lucky bamboo plants.

How can I propagate lucky bamboo by plant divisions?

You can propagate lucky bamboo by plant divisions by separating the stalks from a recent purchase or removed from another pot. 

You can use soil, water or gravel as a growing medium. In this case, we’ll use soil.

• Tidy up any loose leaves, roots and ends.
• Cover any freshly cut ends with candle wax to prevent rotting.
• Prepare a regular pot with loam or potting soil. Place gravels or rock at the bottom of the pot for drainage
• Place the plant divisions in the pot and cover the first 2 – 3 nodes with soil.
• Water generously. (To promote root growth, mix some rooting powder with water)
• Set aside in a well-lit location, away from direct sunlight and busy areas.

Top tip: Within 1 to 2 weeks, new roots and shoots should appear. Water once or twice each week. There is no need to water regularly if you are using loam soil as it has a high water retention capacity. Keep a close watch for signs of rooting and new shoots. Avoid giving the lucky bamboo fertilisers at this early stage.

How can I propagate lucky bamboo plants from seeds?

It takes a long time to get real lucky bamboo plants from seeds. In fact, it can take 6 – 12 months from potting the seeds to getting a real plant. 

Also, lucky bamboo does not flower regularly, that’s why it’s often hard to get the seeds locally. The best thing is the satisfaction of propagating your own plant! 

So, here are the steps you can follow if you are ambitious.

Propagating lucky bamboo from seed:

• Place the seeds out on a wet paper towel or white cloth. The seeds are black and small, so be careful when handling them.
• Prepare the grow pots. Add well-drained moist soil or potting soil. Avoid using regular garden soil because it may have snails and slugs in them.
• Put the seeds about 1 cm to 1.5 cm into the soil. Space them out evenly.
• Water generously and place them in the greenhouse or in a shaded site until they germinate.

After propagating bamboo from seeds

• Check and water regularly, but do not overwater.
• Gently pull out the plants that are 10 cm in height and move them into pots until all your plants have been transplanted.
• Do not empty the growing pot (tray) because some seeds may remain dormant in it. Leave them for a further 2 or 3 weeks until you are absolutely certain that all the seeds have germinated.

Top tip: It can take up to 2 weeks, even longer, for the lucky bamboo seeds to germinate. Once the new plants reach 10 cm to 15 cm tall, transplant them into larger pots. Ensure that the soil you are using is rich in nutrients and well-aerated. Lucky bamboo plants do not like waterlogged soil, do not overwater the plants.

How long does lucky bamboo take to grow?

The propagated plants can take about 2 weeks to 4 weeks for the first signs of growth to appear. 

It depends entirely on the method you are using and the initial care you give to them. Read about the best practices and care guide for lucky bamboo plants. 

Some plants will take longer, so be patient. Either way, the best thing is to enjoy watching your lucky bamboo plants grow.

Conclusion

All in all, you are likely to get healthy plants much faster from the stalk and shoot cuttings than by plant divisions and from seed propagation. 

We hope that the 3 ways help you to propagate lucky bamboo plants. Let us know in the comment which method suits you.

How to care for lucky bamboo plant?

The lucky bamboo plants can live for several years before repotting. They are undemanding and low maintenance. This houseplant needs love and care to thrive indoors. 

But, what are the best ways to maintain the health and appearance of a lucky bamboo plant? Here are five dos and don’ts.

How to Care for Lucky Bamboo Plant?

Must-do

• Use distilled water.
• Keep lucky bamboo indoors.
• Grow them in groups for good luck
• Grow them in pots, vases or clear regular glasses.
• Keep them indoors where there’s filtered light.

Don’ts

• Add fertilisers.
• Use tap water.
• Move the pots/vases
• Place in direct sunlight.
• Place them where pet cats can reach them.

How to care for a lucky bamboo plant?

Distilled water is good for lucky bamboo plants because it’s free of chemicals like chlorine and lead. 

A recent BBC study revealed that there are 18 different chemicals present in tap water. Among them are traces of chlorine used in water treatment and lead from the corrosive water pipes. 

Though the chemicals are present in small amounts, they do affect the health of lucky bamboo plants over time. 

Therefore, it is vital to use only distilled water when using water for growing lucky bamboo plants. Rainwater is also a good alternative. 

Another important factor that affects the growth of lucky bamboo plants in direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause stress to the leaves, especially the new plants. 

Keep them in the shade where there is filtered light. 

Lucky bamboo plants also love high moisture at around 50%. One way to improve moisture indoors is by opening the window and letting outside air in. 

Also, try not to move the lucky bamboo plants around. 

The tall plants growing in water and gravel will dislodge easily. This can harm the roots, stalks and leaves.

Is lucky bamboo poisonous to cats?

Many pet owners are wondering if lucky bamboo plants are poisonous to cats and house pets. 

It’s nontoxic on the exterior, but it causes stomach irritation, vomiting and nausea when ingested. 

There are a couple of things you can do to protect your pets if you are growing lucky bamboo plants indoors. 

Place the vase or pot in a strategic location where pet cats cannot reach. 

Spray the leaves with repellents. By doing this, you'll keep the pet cat safe from licking or eating the bamboo plants.

Lucky bamboo care guide

Here at Garden Bamboo Plants, we gather all-you-need-to-know about growing and caring for lucky bamboo. 

You can find out about the three ways to propagate them, how to grow them in water, soil and grave, and provide the right care. 

Check out the 3 articles on propagating, growing and caring for lucky bamboo plants.

• How to propagate and grow healthy lucky bamboo plants.
• Best ways to revive a dying lucky bamboo plant.
• 10 facts about this popular house plant.

Conclusion (How to care for lucky bamboo plant)

In the wild, lucky bamboo plants are prolific near watering holes, streams and undercovers. So, make the condition as natural as possible. 

We hope that this information helps you to keep your lucky bamboo plant healthy.