Professional growers take the stalks and braid and curl them into intricate designs. Larger, more intricate designs result in some lucky bamboo plants costing hundreds and hundreds of dollars. A plant kept in a pot can grow up to 3 feet (0. 9 m) high. If it’s grown in soil outside, it may reach a height of up to 5 feet (1. 5 m). [2] X Research source
If you do go the stone route, the container should have enough stones or marbles in the bottom to stabilize it. The lucky bamboo will need at least 1 to 3 inches (3-8 cm) of water to thrive. If you want to grow it in soil, well-drained, rich potting soil is best. It needs to stay moist but not soaking at all times. Use organic fertilizer when needed; salts and high phosphorus concentrations in synthetic fertilizers can cause deterioration. Also, you can be sure your soil drains well by simply adding some small rocks to the bottom of the pot.
Keep in mind that the plant needs to be stabilized at its peak height. Your container should be at least 1 foot (30 cm) in height. Using soil? Fill the pot up most of the way with your rich soil and make sure it can drain well.
If you want to control the curl of your plant, use a three-sided box (a box with a side cut out). The plant will then bend toward the light. As it curves, change the side the sunlight faces, and the plant will curve back. [4] X Research source
As the seasons change, you may want to move the plant. Take it away from any windows if you’re unsure. It’ll still get plenty of light in the center of a room.
Once the plant has grown roots, the roots must be kept covered with water. Again, 1-3 inches is all it takes.
Encourage more roots by increasing the amount of water in which the plant is growing. More roots mean lusher top foliage; the higher the water is up the stalk, the higher up the roots will grow.
Add it at the same time as you add the rest of the water; it’s best to add fertilizer when the water is clean.
Once it gets tip burn, it may be hard to get rid of. Even if you do switch water, some chemicals may reside in the plant. You may just have to wait it out as it should go away eventually.
Trim them off within an inch or two (2. 5 - 5 cm) of the base. New shoots will emerge and the plant will be bushier and healthier.
As for mushy leaves, this plant could be beyond saving. Remove them immediately, change the water, and replant what you have left.
If you have a dying plant, get rid of the decaying parts immediately. Take any alive stems or branches and immediately repot them. They may flourish on their own if you take swift action. [8] X Research source
