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Problems-with-Bamboo.jpg

Problems with Bamboo

I have a bamboo plant that is about 4 1/2 ' tall in a 16" pot with drain holes.  The plant is now inside and watered every other day.  The leaves are beginning to turn yellow, the tips are dry and flakey and mushrooms were growing in the bottom of the pot.  Does my bamboo have a disease?

It sounds like a moisture problem.  Keep your bamboo in a bright sunny window.  Water often enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy. The soil in such a large container stays wet for a long time.  Be sure to pour off excess water or elevate the pot so it sits above any water collected in the saucer.  Cut back on watering frequency.  You will probably need to water every 5 to 10 days depending on the temperature in your home and the amount of sunlight the plant receives.  Check the soil before watering.  Wait until the top few inches are dry before watering again.  Adjust your watering, wait for the plant to recover before fertilizing and it should be fine.  

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