How to Care for Bamboo House Plants
Bamboo refers to any plant that is a member of the subfamily Bambusoidae. Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that first originated in coastal China. It develops into canes with narrow leaves. Bamboo has regular and dwarf varieties. It can range in height from a few inches to 100 feet, although most available for indoor cultivation do not grow taller than 10 feet. Live bamboo adds an exotic, Asian flair to a home, but it must be cared for properly. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Give it space. Bamboo can become root-bound in small containers because it grows so quickly; check yours seasonally. Move it to a larger pot or planter box if it becomes too large for its current one. You could also divide the bamboo and give to friends.
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Maintain the soil. Bamboo grows well in acidic, well-drained soil (loam is ideal) without standing water. Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring and summer.
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Keep bamboo in full sun. Bamboo comes from a warm, humid climate and grows best under these conditions. It may lose heat, even indoors, when next to a window so cover the soil with heavy mulch.
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Water regularly. It is time to water when the top 3 inches of soil are dry. Estimate water needs of about a 1/2 gallon of water for a 5-gallon potted plant.
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Remove yellowed leaves. Bamboo leaves turn yellow and shed in the spring. It is not a sign something is wrong with the plant. Discard them or add them to the mulch.
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Tips & Warnings
So-called "Lucky Bamboo" is not really bamboo at all. It is a type of tropical lily. Keep it out of direct sunlight, ambient room-light is fine, and use only filtered or natural spring water.
