Lucky Bamboo

[uscalus storm]

So i bought a lucky bamboo about 5 years ago and have cut off about 8 stalks so far to start new ones. I've given most away and only have two left. I recently added some new rock media and i have never changed the water. It used to be strait tap until i heard distilling it in the open for 24 hrs is better. I started doing that 2 months ago and not only have a noticed a "smell" (like rotting clams) but ive also noticed white floating chunks (sometimes) and NOW a purple hued bottom/water.

I change the water once a week the way i mentioned above. Is it a fungus? What's producing this purple water?!

PS i know it looks brown but its like a pink purple hue.

[uscalus storm]

Sorry for the bad pics but its on my phone atm since the camera is broken. Here are my not so happy plants.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

It is probably rotted, dead roots and plant parts that cause the discolor to the water. It might be time to wash the gravel and replant the bamboo. Before you do, wait for someone who actually grows these guys and see if they agree.

Cheers,
BD

[uscalus storm]

Too late...I already took the rocks out to clean them. Someone give this man a prize! Your right. Ill show you the pic now that i changed out the gravel.

When i searched the only thing i found was this:
Risk of Infection

If you cut the stalk of your bamboo, there's a risk of bacteria seeping into the cut area. If your bamboo becomes infected, the water will turn murky or brown and have an unpleasant odor. At this point there's very little you can do to save your bamboo and it should be thrown away.

This doesnt seem to be the issue because the last time i cut a sprout was 4 months ago.

How would you wash the gravel? Soap and water? Just water?

[Brutal_Dreamer]

Just water - like if it was for a fish tank. And if you cut the bamboo again, to keep it from rotting, why not try sealing it with pruning seal?

Good luck!

Cheers,
BD