Learn the feng shui secrets of lucky bamboo

It’s called a bamboo plant, but it isn’t. If you’re looking for one, you can’t find it. But when you least expect it, there it will be, whether at a big-box store, a dollar store, or even a gas station. 
Popularly known as the lucky bamboo plant, the dracaena sanderiana is a type of tropical water lily that has been used in the Chinese practice of feng shui for more than 5,000 years. Many believe it brings good luck and prosperity and enhances the flow of positive energy when placed in the right direction in a room. 
Tying a red ribbon around a lucky bamboo balances the element of fire with the plant’s wood to represent balance and safety in life.
So, if you get one, you better know how to take care of it!
The stalks grow in either water or soil, but they will last longer in soil, which should be kept slightly damp. If using water as a growing source, change it weekly and make sure it covers the roots. Add liquid houseplant fertilizer every three to four weeks.  
Indirect lighting is best, and the temperature should stay between 65 and 95 degrees. Remove leaves when they yellow, and repot the plant as it grows. 
By the way, the plant is toxic to cats and dogs, so be sure to keep it out of reach. It is not toxic to humans.
The plant can be shaped, twisted, and braided much like the art of bonsai.
Lucky bamboo is the perfect gift for house warmings, birthdays, or any celebration. The number of stalks determines the type of luck you are passing on with the gift. 
Two stalks double your luck and represent love, so they are perfect for Valentine’s Day. Three stalks represent wealth, happiness, and long life, which makes them good gifts for anniversaries or birthdays. 
Give five-stalk plants to entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. Six and seven stalks also bring prosperity, along with happiness and good health. 
If someone you love needs motivation or a change of luck from bad to good, give them a plant with eight stalks. For completion and perfection, try 10 stalks and for abundance and blessings, only 21 stalks will do. 
Maybe you should get one for yourself.
editor@thepicayune.com