Training a Lucky Bamboo Plant

The curled lucky bamboo is thought to bring wealth.

Lucky bamboo plants are popular indoor houseplants due to their appearance and easy maintenance. While lucky bamboo plants are not bamboos at all—they are members of the lily family—they are believed to bring good feng shui to the home or office. Asian culture has long thought the lucky bamboo plant retains a different meaning for the varying number of stalks any arrangement may have. In particular, the spiraled or curled plants are thought to be the most lucky. Although it takes a long time to complete, training lucky bamboo plants to curl or twist is an easy project.

Things You'll Need

• Lucky bamboo plant
• Cardboard box
• Scissors
• Grow light or sunny window

Instructions

1. Measure a cardboard box to ensure adequate space inside for the lucky bamboo plant. Be sure the top of the box does not touch the top of the lucky bamboo. Cut the flaps, bottom and one side of the box with sharp scissors. Set a young plant—in its original container—in an area that receives indirect light from a grow light or window. Mature stalks on lucky bamboo plants will not grow, so young plants are the only ones that can be trained to bend or twist. Cover the plant with the box so the cut side is facing the light source. The stem curls in search of light.

2. Care for the plant as stated on instructions received at time of purchase. Lucky bamboo plants require clean water every week to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Turn the plant one inch when the first signs of curling begin. This turning will allow the lucky bamboo plant to turn toward the light source. The direction and intensity of the curl is based on the individual owner's style and desires.

3. Keep turning and training the lucky bamboo pot in the same direction as soon as each new curl is detected so the plant is constantly reaching for the light and curling.

Tips & Warnings

• Curl ideas and training designs of the plant can be found by looking online or through lucky bamboo books.

• Training a lucky bamboo plant to curl can become a very long process, sometimes taking months or up to 1 year to produce a single curl.

Resources

• Brussel's Bonsai Nursery: Lucky Bamboo