Heavenly Bamboo

Heavenly Bamboo should have moist soil, and should be watered when the top inch or two of soil is dry. If planted in containers, they should be watered deeply once a week. Be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot. It should be monitored more carefully in its early life and as the environment changes.

Heavenly Bamboo prefers partial shade, though it can tolerate a small amount of direct sunlight, but not too much or its leaves may be scorched. It can also be kept in containers indoors and grown near a window. It grows best with a consistent medium light.

Heavenly Bamboo prefers temperatures between 45°F-90°F (7°C-32°C). It can handle temperatures that dip down into the upper 20s, but not for long periods of time. It can also handle temperatures up to 100°F (38°C), but needs extra water during periods of extreme heat.

Heavenly Bamboo thrives in average humidity levels. If planted indoors it should not be placed near heaters or AC vents where the air is overly dry. The best humidity level should between 40%-50%, or a relative humidity of 40%-50%. It is beneficial to mist your Heavenly Bamboo or increase humidity through other methods such as a humidifier or pebble tray.

Heavenly Bamboo prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH level between 6.0-7.0. High quality potting soil, soil-based compost, and/or coarse sand is recommended for indoor potted plants.

Heavenly Bamboo should be fertilized in the spring when it is actively growing. Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for shrubs or a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using too much fertilizer or you may end up causing harm instead of good. If possible, scratch fertilizer into the soil at the base of the plant and water deeply afterwards.

Heavenly Bamboo can be prone to various pests such as scale, whitefly, and spider mites. Scale insects are small round disc-like bugs that form white bumpy patches on stems and leaves. Whitefly are small white insects that form clusters near the leaves and feed on plant sap. Spider mites are tiny red and white mites that form small webs on the leaves and feed on the plant sap. The best way to get rid of these pests is to wipe them off the leaves with a damp piece of cloth or spray them off with a strong stream of water. Any remaining pests can be treated with a pesticide specifically designed for the type of insect causing the infestation.

Heavenly Bamboo should be repotted in the spring or early summer when it is actively growing. It should be potted into fertile, fast draining soil and is best done when the plant is in a period of active growth. The new pot should be no more than two inches larger than the old one, as it prefers to be slightly root-bound. Be sure to water it deeply after transplanting.

Heavenly Bamboo should be pruned in the early spring to promote healthy growth. It can handle light pruning and can even be shaped to create an interesting architectural form. Stems should be pruned at the nodes where the leaves attach to the stem. Use clean pruning utensils and trim any dead, dying, or damaged stems. A light trim of the outer foliage can also be utilized to promote vigorous new growth.

Heavenly Bamboo should be mulched to keep its roots cool and moist. An organic mulch is recommended, such as wood chips, bark, or compost. Keep the mulch approximately 2-3 inches away from the base of the plant and one inch below the leaves.

Heavenly Bamboo can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut off a healthy stem between four and six inches ahead of a node, strip the leaves off the lower half of the stem, and plant in a container filled with a mixture or potting soil and sand. Keep the container in a warm area with indirect sunlight and mist the soil daily to keep it moist. Rooting hormone can also be applied to increase the chances of success. Within two weeks, roots will begin to form.

Heavenly Bamboo may require support in outdoors due to its height and potential for wind damage. It is best to use a stake or metal cage and gently tie the stems to the support with soft twine.

Heavenly Bamboo does not have a distinct rest period. If it is desirable to cut back or shorten the plant, late winter or early spring is a good time to do this.

Heavenly Bamboo is not considered toxic to pets, however it is wise to always be cautious when introducing a new plant into a home with pets.