8 Common Reasons Lucky Bamboo Turns Yellow—and the Fixes That Actually Work

The bamboo plant (Dracaena sanderiana) is a popular houseplant typically referred to as lucky bamboo. Commonly grown for its low-maintenance reputation, this plant requires indirect sunlight and moderate watering to thrive. Despite being beginner-friendly, bamboo plants aren't without their issues. One common problem you may encounter when growing a bamboo plant is yellowing leaves, which can occur for various reasons. To help you troubleshoot this concern, we spoke to gardening experts who shared the most common reasons a bamboo plant turns yellow—and how to fix each.

Overwatering

Many bamboo plants are grown in water, so overwatering isn't an issue unless the plant is grown in soil. "If you are growing your bamboo in soil, it will rot if left standing in water or if the soil is too moist for too long," says Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, founder of The Houseplant Guru.

Too much water reduces oxygen available to roots, causing them to rot. "Damaged roots cannot move nutrients effectively, which causes leaves or stems to turn yellow," says Ankit Singh, assistant professor and ornamental horticulture educator at the University of Maine Extension. To fix this, let the soil dry out before watering again and ensure the container has proper drainage.

Underwatering

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause problems with your bamboo plant. "When bamboo dries out for too long, it becomes stressed. The plant may sacrifice older leaves first, which turn yellow," Singh says. "Water regularly and maintain consistent, moderate moisture. Soil should be slightly damp but not saturated." If you are growing a bamboo plant in water, Steinkopf says to keep the vase filled and change the water out often to keep it fresh.

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Water Quality

While growing a bamboo plant in water prevents issues with over- or underwatering, it can cause other problems. According to Singh, the chlorine, fluoride, or hard minerals in tap water can damage bamboo, especially lucky bamboo. "Use distilled water or let the chlorine dissipate by allowing the water to sit overnight," Steinkopf says. "It can cause the leaf tips to turn yellow."

Disease

It's possible your bamboo plant is suffering from stem rot. "The stem will start to turn yellow and then darken. If it is only the top of the stem, you can cut off the discolored part, and it will re-sprout leaves," says Steinkopf. "If it is the bottom part closest to the roots, cut the top off above the yellow part, place it in water, and it should grow new roots."

Pests

Closely inspect your bamboo plant for pests, as this may be the source of the yellowing. "Pests such as spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs feed on plant sap, weakening the plant and causing discoloration," says Singh. To get rid of these pests, he recommends treating the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap, or gently wiping it with diluted soap and water until they're gone.

Inadequate Sunlight

In low light, bamboo plants can't produce enough chlorophyll and may develop yellow or pale leaves. Keep your plant happy by moving it to an area with bright, indirect light. "Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch foliage," says Singh.

Overfertilizing

Fertilizer helps boost plant growth, but too much can cause salt buildup and root burn, leading to nutrient imbalance and leaf yellowing. If you're growing a bamboo plant in water, Steinkopf recommends using a fertilizer designed for hydroponic plants. "If in soil, use a regular balanced fertilizer approximately once a month," she says. If you think you over-fertilized your bamboo plant, Singh recommends flushing the soil with water and temporarily stopping fertilizer applications. 

Incorrect Temperature

Bamboo plants are sensitive to sudden temperature changes. "Cold damage or heat stress can both result in yellowing," says Singh. "Keep bamboo away from drafty windows, heating vents, or air conditioners. Ideal temperatures are between 65 degrees and 90 degrees Fahrenheit."