Expert: Dr. Rakesh Kumar - 7/27/2007

Question
I recently bought several bamboo sticks from a dollar store.  I gave my son 3 of which he cut 2 of them to make them each different sizes and look better.  The 2 that he cut went bad.  The water smelled horribly and I ended up throwing away.  I also did some research of the care of lucky bamboo which some differs from what I've read from your advice, so I'm confused.  I was told NOT to use tap water, to use bottled water, distilled or take tap water and let it sit for at least 24 hours so all of the bad materials can evaporate or whatever.  Is there a special way to cut these? Is that what happened or what?  I also got green food to use.  Is that necesarry?  I've heard something on both sides of that question.
Thanks,
Peggy M.

Answer
Dear Peggy
The basic problem with your plant is infection due to cut. Now u should change water regularly to stop more contamination. I suggested u to use tap water because tap water provides the nutrients and distilled water can not supply them. If you are providing the nutrients then you can use distilled water. I don't know about green food.
Rakesh