Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Check the water for a foul smell.
- Look at the roots to see if they are firm and light colored.
- Check for nearby air vents or drafty windows.
Likely causes
Root rot
Most likelyHow to tell: The stalks feel soft or mushy near the base and the leaves wilt. The roots may look dark, slimy, or smell bad.
What to do: Remove the plant from the water and trim away any mushy, black roots. Wash the container thoroughly and replace the water with fresh, clean water.
Temperature stress
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves droop suddenly after being placed near a drafty window or a heater. The plant reacts quickly to sudden changes in its environment.
What to do: Move the plant to a stable environment away from cold drafts or heat vents. Keep the temperature between 65 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Find out what's wrong with your lucky bamboo
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
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When to worry
If the stalk is mushy, the plant is likely rotting and needs immediate intervention. Minor drooping after a move is normal as the plant adjusts.
Stopping it coming back
Change the water regularly to keep it oxygenated and clean. Keep the plant away from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Keep your lucky bamboo healthy from here
Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- How often should I change the water?
- Change the water every 7 to 14 days. This prevents bacteria buildup and keeps the roots healthy.
- Should I use rocks in the container?
- Yes, pebbles or stones help support the stalks and keep them upright. Just make sure to wash the stones before adding them to the water.
More problems with Lucky Bamboo
- Why is my Lucky Bamboo rotting at the base?
- Why are my Lucky Bamboo leaf tips turning brown?
- Why are there tiny bugs on my Lucky Bamboo?
- Why are my Lucky Bamboo leaves turning yellow?
- Why is my Lucky Bamboo growing so tall and thin?
- Why is my Lucky Bamboo losing its leaves?
- What are these spots on my Lucky Bamboo?
Back to the Lucky Bamboo guide
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.