Taking care of bamboo in water (often referred to as lucky bamboo or Dracaena sanderiana) is quite easy, as this plant thrives in water environments. Here are the key steps to ensure your bamboo stays healthy:

. Watering

• Use distilled or non-chlorinated water (tap water can contain chlorine or fluoride, which may harm the bamboo).
• Fill the container with enough water to cover the roots completely, but don’t submerge the stems or leaves.
• Change the water regularly, ideally every 1–2 weeks. This prevents the build-up of bacteria and keeps the water fresh.
• Keep an eye on the water level, and top it off as needed, ensuring the roots remain submerged.

. Lighting

• Place your bamboo in a spot with indirect light (bright, filtered light). Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
• Too little light may cause the bamboo to grow slowly or develop pale leaves, while too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves.

. Fertilizing

• Bamboo in water benefits from occasional fertilization. Use a liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to about one-quarter strength.
• Fertilize the plant once every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in the winter when growth slows down.
• Over-fertilizing can lead to yellowing leaves, so it's important to use a diluted solution.

. Cleaning

• Clean the roots and container when you change the water, especially if you notice any algae buildup. You can wipe the container with a cloth to keep it clear and prevent the growth of mold or algae.
• If the roots become slimy or discolored, gently rinse them under lukewarm water.

. Pruning

• You can prune your bamboo to maintain its shape by cutting off any yellow or damaged leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid harming the plant.
• If the bamboo becomes too tall or leggy, you can trim the stems to your desired length. Ensure that you don’t cut the stems too short; leave some length for healthy growth.

. Repotting

• Bamboo in water typically doesn’t need frequent repotting. However, if it outgrows its container or the roots get too crowded, you may want to move it to a larger vase or container.
• If you prefer, you can also transplant the bamboo into soil after it grows large enough for a new environment.

. Pests and Problems

• While bamboo is generally pest-resistant, occasionally, you may see mealybugs or spider mites. If you notice any pests, clean the bamboo with a mild soap solution or neem oil.
• Yellowing leaves can indicate poor water quality, too much direct sunlight, or over-fertilizing.

Fun fact:

Most commonly meanings associated with the number of bamboos: 1 stalk: good fortune, 2 stalks: love, 3 stalks: happiness, wealth, 4 stalks: stable, strong, power, 5 stalks: wealth, fortune, 6 stalks: prosperity, 7 stalks: good health.