Thinking about bamboo, images of large plants growing outdoors come to mind: in reality this species can also be grown indoors. The bamboo in the house it is an increasingly popular choice for those who want to bring nature into the home. Not only for its beauty, but also for its reputation as a good luck plant. Since it doesn’t require many precautions, therefore, find out how to grow bamboo at home.
The ideal environment to grow bamboo
To ensure that your bamboo grows healthy and thriving, it is essential to provide it with the right environmental conditions. Bamboo prefers a certain brightness, but you will have to be careful protect it from direct sunlight. A dimly lit environment, especially during the hottest hours of the day, is ideal.
You should also pay attention to the aspect of watering, which should be regular. Understand when the plant needs water it’s very simple: wait for the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to maintain ideal humidity.
For bamboo grown in water, it is essential change the water every 7-10 days to maintain a clean and oxygen-rich environment. Always use water at room temperature to avoid thermal shock which could damage the plant.
In water or soil?
Nutrient-rich yet well-draining soil is the secret to optimal growth. Near specific mixtures for houseplants or create your own by combining all-purpose potting soil with perlite or vermiculite to increase porosity and drainage.
Remember that bamboo it can grow both in water and in soil: in the first case, remember to add small quantities of specific liquid fertilizer for aquatic plants. If instead you opt for cultivation in soil, once planted, Lightly compact the soil around the roots and water thoroughly to eliminate any air pockets.
The most frequent problems in bamboo cultivation
One of the problems that can affect your bamboo is leaf tip necrosis, a condition that causes the tips of the leaves to brown and wilt. The causes may relate to low humidity levels or an excessive concentration of mineral salts in the irrigation water.
Another common problem is the attack of scale insects, small insects that feed on plant sap and can cause decay and slow growth. To combat them, you can intervene with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol or with specific ones pesticide products. It is important to act promptly in this case.
Repotting and pruning: how to do it?
Repotting and pruning are essential practices for maintaining your bamboo healthy and promote balanced growth. Repotting should be done every two or three years, or when you notice that the roots have completely filled the pot and are starting to come out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot slightly larger than the previous one and use a new fertile substrate to give new energy to the plant.
There pruning it is useful for removing dry or damaged parts and for stimulating the plant to produce new shoots. You can prune bamboo at any time of the year, but the best time is summer, when the plant is growing. Always use sharp, clean scissors to make clean cuts and reduce the length of the stems to the desired shape.
