Background

The woven bamboo money tree (“Bamboo Prosperity Tree”) consists of 24 – 36 canes of dracaena sardiana, more commonly known as lucky bamboo.  These canes are harvested and carefully chosen by the master weaver for size, color, and flexibility insuring each arrangement is made from the finest quality stock.  After the canes are woven together, the arrangement is repotted in a coconut husk/perlite medium for 1 – 3 months.  This repotting promotes root growth, enabling the woven arrangement to flourish for years under the proper care.

 

Unpacking the Bamboo Prosperity Tree

The Bamboo Prosperity Tree is shipped with damp, cotton gauze “diaper” to keep the roots moist, and a plastic sleeve to protect the foliage and canes.  The arrangements should be promptly removed from the plastic sleeve and cotton diaper, and then soaked in a bath of luke warm water for at least a ½ hour.  This will revitalize the plants.  Then place in a bowl or dish with 2 – 3 inches of luke warm water so that the roots are covered.

 

Light/Temperature/Water Conditions

The Bamboo Prosperity Tree prefers the same care as lucky bamboo canes.  Moderate or indirect light is preferred, and the arrangements should be kept between 65 – 95 degrees F.  Fresh, clean water is essential to maintain the plants, and it is recommended that the roots always be wet or at least moist.  We recommend only 1.5 – 2 inches of water around the roots, and changing the water once every 7 – 10 days.  Tap water is sufficient, and an occasional fertilizing every 3 – 4 weeks will promote vigorous growth.  We recommend a weak dilution of a well-balanced fertilizer. 

Once the root system is established, we recommend transplanting the arrangement into a mixture of 50% sand, 45% fiber, and the balance with perlite.  This medium provides the extra nutrients and drainage the established plant requires.  Keep the potting medium moist, adding water as needed.

 

Ambient Air Conditions and Maintenance

Good air movement and the occasional pruning are essential for maintaining the Bamboo Prosperity Tree’s quality appearance.  The top foliage should have some room to allow air to evaporate any accumulated moisture, and any yellowing or browning foliage resulting from condensation should be removed.  The tree foliage can grow 1 – 2 inches a month, and proper shaping and pruning adds beauty and strength to these arrangements.   

 

Other Care Considerations

The Bamboo Prosperity Tree arrangement should last for years under proper care conditions.  On occasion, the rattan-retaining ring may get wet, and care should be taken to insure this ring stays dry.  Mold can develop on damp surfaces, and care should be taken to remove any signs of mold before it can spread to the canes.   Remove the mold with cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol.  Insects are best treated with several applications of mild insecticide soap.  We recommend inspecting the money tree on a frequent basis to monitor the plants growth.  Problems should be treated promptly; removing old foliage or discolored canes immediately.