Bamboo is a striking plant with its vibrant green stalks and delicate copper roots, making it an excellent choice for home décor. But can bamboo grow in a vase? That’s the question I set out to answer after finding three beautiful bamboo stalks at a flea market for just $3. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Why Bamboo?
Bamboo is known for its beauty and resilience. The stalks I purchased were sturdy, healthy, and ready for a new home. Their bold green color and coppery roots screamed potential. I couldn’t help but imagine how they’d add life and energy to my space. Plus, every plant deserves a name, right? I christened mine the “Bamboo Bettys.”
While pandas munch on bamboo as their primary food source, these plants are more than just a snack for wildlife. Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth—under ideal conditions, it can grow up to 12 inches a day! This rapid growth intrigued me, though I hoped that wouldn’t be the case for bamboo growing in a vase.
Finding the Perfect Vase
Choosing the right container for my Bamboo Bettys was no small feat. I had three contenders in mind:
- Ms. Fancy Pants
A sleek glass vase with subtle gold patterns that almost mimic bamboo’s natural texture. This vase is elegant and sophisticated, but could it handle fast-growing bamboo roots? - Plain Jane
A simple, no-frills vase that’s reliable and sturdy. It’s not flashy, but it’s practical and well-suited for any occasion. - The Triplets
A set of three mini vases, each perfect for one stalk of bamboo. While adorable, I was slightly concerned about the limited space for roots. If the bamboo started growing too quickly, I’d need a backup plan—most likely Ms. Fancy Pants or Plain Jane.
Ultimately, I decided on The Triplets. Their compact size and clean look made them an excellent starting point, and I could always upgrade if the roots outgrew their home.
Where Should Bamboo Live?
Next came the challenge of finding the ideal spot for the Bamboo Bettys. I considered three potential locations:
- The Great Room Ottoman
This spot would ensure maximum visibility for both family and guests. However, my 95-pound German Shepherd, Creed, loves to claim the ottoman as his personal lounge. Creed’s habit of plopping down with force could easily send the bamboo toppling over. Not ideal. - The Kitchen Table
While a central location like the kitchen table seemed promising, the bamboo stalks blocked the line of sight from the kitchen to the TV in the great room. This would likely lead to the bamboo being pushed aside—a fate the Bettys didn’t deserve. - The Guest Bathroom
Ultimately, the guest bathroom downstairs won the spot. It’s a low-risk area with controlled lighting, ensuring the bamboo gets the perfect environment to thrive. Plus, it’s a high-traffic location for both family and guests, giving the Bettys the attention they deserve.
Caring for Bamboo in a Vase
Growing bamboo in a vase is simple as long as you meet a few basic requirements:
- Water: Keep the roots submerged in clean water. Change the water every week to prevent bacteria and odors.
- Light: Bamboo prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light will stunt growth.
- Space: Ensure the vase provides enough room for the roots to grow. If you notice the roots outgrowing their space, consider transferring the stalks to a larger container.
The Final Setup
The Bamboo Bettys now sit happily in their vases in the guest bathroom, with plenty of natural light and a controlled environment. They even have a floral roommate—Olga the orchid—to keep them company. Whether they thrive or not remains to be seen, but I’m hopeful they’ll grow into their new home beautifully.
If you’re considering adding bamboo to your space, don’t hesitate to try growing it in a vase. With the right care, it can be a low-maintenance yet eye-catching addition to your home décor.
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