Lucky Bamboo leaves are turning - Ask Extension
My indoor lucky bamboo has been having some issues over the last month. Her leaves have been dying off at a rapid rate and I’m not sure what has hap...
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Lucky Bamboo leaves are turning #852450
Asked October 07, 2023, 12:32 AM EDT
My indoor lucky bamboo has been having some issues over the last month. Her leaves have been dying off at a rapid rate and I’m not sure what has happened. We’ve had her for a long time and have not experienced this.
Prince George's County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi, Rande,
The most likely cause of brown or yellow leaves on lucky bamboo, Dracaena sanderiana, is improper watering or over-exposure to light. Note, though, that the lower leaves will age and turn brown. These leaves can be removed with a sharp sterilized knife or scissors.
When watering, let the pot dry out before watering again. Since this plant is sensitive to chemicals, particularly chlorine, in the water, using distilled water is best. You can also use tap water if you let the water sit for a day before using it. We notice that there seems to be salt build up on the rim of the pot, which may be the result chemicals in the water.
If you have never re-potted the plant, it may be time to do so. After removing the plant from the pot, check the health of the roots. If you find any that are not healthy, remove them with a sharp knife which should be sterilized between cuts. Choose a potting soil that drains well. If the roots were crowded, go up one size with a new pot. Once a month, fertilize with a weak, balanced solution.
The plant likes plenty of indirect light. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves.
If you choose to reduce the height of your plant, you can propagate new plants by taking cuttings. To propagate lucky bamboo, use a pair of sharp, clean scissors to cut the stem above one of the eyes. Make sure the cutting includes one leaf joint. Then root the cutting in distilled water.
Thank you for your question.
Barbara
The most likely cause of brown or yellow leaves on lucky bamboo, Dracaena sanderiana, is improper watering or over-exposure to light. Note, though, that the lower leaves will age and turn brown. These leaves can be removed with a sharp sterilized knife or scissors.
When watering, let the pot dry out before watering again. Since this plant is sensitive to chemicals, particularly chlorine, in the water, using distilled water is best. You can also use tap water if you let the water sit for a day before using it. We notice that there seems to be salt build up on the rim of the pot, which may be the result chemicals in the water.
If you have never re-potted the plant, it may be time to do so. After removing the plant from the pot, check the health of the roots. If you find any that are not healthy, remove them with a sharp knife which should be sterilized between cuts. Choose a potting soil that drains well. If the roots were crowded, go up one size with a new pot. Once a month, fertilize with a weak, balanced solution.
The plant likes plenty of indirect light. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves.
If you choose to reduce the height of your plant, you can propagate new plants by taking cuttings. To propagate lucky bamboo, use a pair of sharp, clean scissors to cut the stem above one of the eyes. Make sure the cutting includes one leaf joint. Then root the cutting in distilled water.
Thank you for your question.
Barbara
