How to Take Care of a Bamboo Plant in Water

How to take care of a bamboo plant in water is very simple if you follow the right steps. Bamboo grows well in clean water, needs indirect sunlight, and only basic care. With proper water change, clean roots, and a little attention, a bamboo plant can stay healthy and green for many years indoors.

I am sharing this guide based on my own gardening experience. I have grown bamboo plants in both soil and water at my home, and honestly, bamboo in water is one of the lowest-maintenance indoor plants I have ever kept. Many beginners make small mistakes, but once you understand the basics, bamboo becomes very easy to care for.

About Bamboo Plant Grown in Water

Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) is commonly grown in water and is very popular for homes, offices, and apartments. It is not a true bamboo, but it looks like one and brings a natural green feel indoors.

Why people love growing bamboo in water:

  • No soil mess
  • Looks decorative
  • Easy to maintain
  • Grows well indoors
  • Considered lucky in many cultures

You can grow bamboo in glass bowls, glass bottles, or ceramic containers, making it perfect for table décor.


Quick Tips for Bamboo Plant in Water

  • Use clean, chlorine-free water
  • Change water every 7–10 days
  • Keep in bright indirect sunlight
  • Clean roots gently once a month
  • Use small stones to support stems
  • Avoid direct sunlight
  • Do not overuse fertilizer

Best Water for Bamboo Plant

Water quality is the most important part of bamboo care.

Best water options:

  • RO water
  • Filtered water
  • Rainwater (best if available)

Avoid:

  • Direct tap water (contains chlorine)
  • Hard water

My experience:
Earlier, I used tap water and noticed yellow leaves after a few weeks. After switching to RO water and changing it regularly, the plant became greener and healthier.


How Often to Change Water

Changing water is very important to keep the bamboo plant healthy.

  • Change water every 7 to 10 days
  • Clean the container while changing water
  • Rinse roots gently with clean water

Dirty water can cause:

  • Root rot
  • Bad smell
  • Yellow leaves
  • Slow growth

Always keep water clear and fresh.


Sunlight Requirement for Bamboo in Water

Bamboo plants love light, but not direct sunlight.

Best sunlight condition:

  • Bright indirect sunlight
  • Near a window with curtain
  • Well-lit room

Avoid:

  • Direct sunlight
  • Very dark corners

Direct sunlight can burn leaves and turn them yellow.

From my experience:
My bamboo grew best when kept near an east-facing window where it got soft morning light.


Ideal Container for Bamboo in Water

Choosing the right container helps the plant stay stable and healthy.

Best containers:

  • Glass vase
  • Transparent bottle
  • Ceramic pot

Tips:

  • Container should support stems
  • Add small pebbles or stones
  • Water level should cover roots only

Do not submerge the entire stem in water.


Temperature and Environment

Bamboo plants prefer normal room temperature.

Ideal temperature:

  • 18°C to 30°C

Avoid:

  • Very cold rooms
  • AC direct air
  • Heater near plant

Bamboo does not like sudden temperature changes.


Fertilizer for Bamboo Plant in Water

Bamboo does not need much fertilizer.

Best option:

  • Liquid fertilizer (very diluted)

How often:

  • Once every 2–3 months
  • Use only 1–2 drops

Too much fertilizer can burn roots and damage the plant.

Never use soil fertilizer in water.


How to Clean Bamboo Roots

Root cleaning keeps the plant healthy.

Steps:

  1. Remove plant from container
  2. Rinse roots gently in clean water
  3. Remove brown or soft roots
  4. Clean container properly
  5. Add fresh water and place plant back

Do this once a month.


Common Problems and Easy Solutions

1. Yellow Leaves

Reason:

  • Too much sunlight
  • Dirty water
  • Chlorine in water

Solution:

  • Move to indirect light
  • Change water
  • Use filtered water

2. Soft or Black Roots

Reason:

  • Root rot due to dirty water

Solution:

  • Cut damaged roots
  • Clean container
  • Change water regularly

3. Slow Growth

Reason:

  • Low light
  • No nutrients

Solution:

  • Move to brighter place
  • Add very mild liquid fertilizer

Can Bamboo Grow Long-Term in Water?

Yes, bamboo can grow for many years in water if cared properly. However, growth is slower compared to soil. For indoor decoration and low maintenance, water-grown bamboo is perfect.


Is Bamboo Plant Good for Home?

Yes, bamboo is considered very good for homes.

Benefits:

  • Improves indoor look
  • Low maintenance
  • Air-purifying plant
  • Brings calm and positivity

That’s why bamboo is commonly used in homes and offices.


Conclusion

Taking care of a bamboo plant in water is easy, even for beginners. With clean water, indirect sunlight, regular water change, and gentle care, your bamboo plant will stay green and healthy for a long time. Based on my personal experience, bamboo is one of the best indoor plants for people who want beauty without hard work.

If you follow these simple steps, your bamboo plant in water will grow happily and add freshness to your home.


How to Take Care of Lucky Bamboo Plant 2025 : Best way to grow lucky bamboo

Leave a Comment