Lucky
bamboo has become very popular and more widely available in
the past few years. You can now find it at most supermarkets,
as well as floral shops and online. A healthy, green plant brings
a lively qi into the home and this little plant adds a lot without
asking much of you. One
of the reasons it has become popular is that it is so easy to
grow. It does not require a great deal of sunlight. In fact
you should keep it out of direct sunlight. It can be grown in
water or in soil, and requires little care. Most often you will
find it “planted” in a small pot filled with pebbles
and water. Some people feel the water should be changed every
week and others simply replenish the water as it evaporates.
As long as the water is clean and clear, simply refilling the
container will keep your lucky bamboo happy. Here
are a few more words on care. Remove that red string. If it
is tied too tightly it can damage the stalks as they grow causing
disease. Another reason to remove the red string is that red
represents fire and the plant represents wood. Obviously fire
consumes wood, not a situation you want to promote if you plan
to enjoy your lucky bamboo.
A
yellowing leaf is usually caused by too much light and will
eventually progress down the stalk. It can also be caused
by chemicals in the water. Give your bamboo less light and
clean water. If one of the stalks turns yellow it is beyond
help. Remove it from the container or it may sicken the
remaining stalks.
When
replacing/replenishing the water in the pot try to keep
the same level. The water line is where roots will form
and if you raise the water level your plant will grown
more roots. This is a tropical plant and needs a warmer
temperature, at least above 60 degrees, but would prefer
warmer.
Where
should you place your lucky bamboo plant? Their natural
home would be in the east or southeast. Both of these
areas symbolize wood and they provide a gentler quality
of light your plant will appreciate. How many stalks should
you use? The east is associated with the number 3 and
the southeast with the number 4. The number 8 is an auspicious
number in feng shui and if you want a more dramatic display
this could work for you.
