Lucky Bamboo in Water or Potting Soil: Which Is Best for Your Plant?
Lucky bamboo in water or potting soil is a common question among growers. This attractive interior plant is loved for its gorgeous appearance and easy-going nature. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each growing method to help you decide what’s best for keeping your lucky bamboo healthy and thriving. For further detailed insights into the background and cultural relevance of the plant, refer to our full article on the origins and symbolism of lucky bamboo.
Growing Lucky Bamboo in Water
Benefits of Water
Growing lucky bamboo hydroponically, or in water, is also a popular option due to the ease and low maintenance involved. Following are some of the advantages:
- Ease of Maintenance: Lucky bamboo has easy maintenance in water, which simply involves making sure the roots stay submerged and the stalks above the water.
- No Additional Supplies Required: A simple glass container would be OK; no need to prepare the soil or additional pots.
- Minimalistic Aesthetic: Aquatic bamboo lends a modern, sleek appearance to your homes, and the visible roots lend character.
General Problems
Growth in water comes with its own set of problems, which includes:
- Root Rot: Stagnated water causes rotting of the roots, which eventually kills the plant.
- Lack of Nutrition: Water, especially bottled water, is quite devoid of essential nutrients, which over a period of time may affect the growth.
Growing Lucky Bamboo in Soil
Advantages of Soil
Growing lucky bamboo in potting mix does have certain merits that water alone cannot offer, such as:
- Better Nutrition: There are nutrients in the soil that are needed for the overall health of the plant and help the foliage become vibrantly green.
- Improved Drainage: Soil will reduce the risk of root rot by allowing extra water to drain away from the roots.
- Stable Growth: The more stable soil offers a more neutral environment to the root system of the plant, creating stronger and more resilient growth.
How to Transfer Lucky Bamboo from Water to Soil
In case you are transferring your lucky bamboo from water into the soil, follow the steps below:
- Choose the Right Pot: The most important thing is that you find the right pot with proper drainage holes to prevent the accumulation of water at the bottom.
- Prepare the Soil: First of all, prepare a proper potting mix that can be used for indoor plants.
- Handle the Roots with Care: Remove the bamboo from water and gently tease the roots apart. Trim any that appear damaged or too long.
- Planting: Place the bamboo stems into the soil, covering the mass of roots appropriately.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist, but not too wet.
Lucky Bamboo Care
Lighting Requirements
Lucky bamboo prefers to be in bright, indirect lights. With too much direct sunlight, the leaves can burn, and with too little light, growth may be very slow. Your plant should sit near a window where the sun can filter through.
Watering Tips
- Water-grown plants: Change the water every two weeks to prevent it from becoming stagnant and full of algae.
- Soil-grown plants: Keep the soil moist on a regular basis, without ever being soggy or too dry.
Fertilizing
While fertilizing is not necessary when growing lucky bamboo in water, those plants that are planted in a soil medium welcome occasional fertilization. Fertilize plants in soil once every 4-6 weeks with a liquid fertilizer that has been diluted to a quarter strength for good, healthy growth.
Propagation Methods
Water Propagation
To propagate a lucky bamboo in water:
- Cut the stalk into sections, making sure each section has at least one node.
- Place the cuttings in water, making sure the node is under.
- Replace the water weekly to stimulate rooting.
Soil Propagation
For soil propagation, plant the cuttings directly into well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the plant where there is indirect sunlight.
How to Handle Some Common Problems
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves are generally a good indicator that there’s something wrong. It could be overwatering, a deficiency in light, or nutrients. Adjust your care routine accordingly.
Root Rot
If you suspect root rot, especially on water-grown plants, take out the plant immediately, trim the affected roots of your plant, and then replant it in fresh water or fresh soil to avoid further damage.
Final Thoughts
Whether you grow your lucky bamboo in water or soil is up to you and what works best for your plant. While it is easy and aesthetically appealing to grow in water, potting soil usually yields a healthier and hardier plant. If properly maintained with good lighting, moderate watering, and nutrient feeding on occasion, your lucky bamboo will continue to flourish and bring a natural elegance to your home.
Unlock the secrets to keeping your lucky bamboo thriving read our full care guide here
