Lucky bamboo is easy to grow and suits both water and soil culture

Lucky bamboo is not a true bamboo but an evergreen foliage plant of the genus Dracaena. Because its stems are upright, its leaves long and slender, and its symbolism auspicious, it is often used to decorate living rooms, studies and offices. It is undemanding to manage and can be grown either in water or in soil, making it a very popular entry-level green plant.

Water culture is the most common method of growing it at home. Before placing the stems in a container, cut the base at a slant to increase the water-absorbing area. Keep the water clean during rooting and top up the water lost to evaporation in good time; with proper care it will readily grow white roots. Once rooted, it does not need frequent water changes, and adding a few drops of nutrient solution to the water can make the leaves even deeper green and glossier.

Lucky bamboo likes a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light and fears intense sun. In summer it should be placed indoors in a bright spot without direct sunlight. It is not very cold-hardy, so keep it warm in winter and avoid direct cold drafts, which can turn the leaves yellow or cause cold damage. If grown in soil, choose a loose, airy, well-draining medium and keep the potting soil moist but not waterlogged during the growing season.

The most common problem during cultivation is yellowing leaves, usually caused by harsh sun, deteriorating water quality, temperatures that are too low, or a long-term lack of fertilizer. When you notice yellow leaves, cut them off promptly and check the light, temperature and moisture conditions; after adjusting these to suit the plant, it will generally recover. Overall, lucky bamboo is tough and easy to grow, and as long as the environment is warm, the light soft and the water clean, it will stay green all year round.