Bagasse cellulose was grafted with diethylenetriamine to prepare a copolymer. Ammonium ceric nitrate was chosen as the initiator. Considering the optimum zeta potential, conditions including initiator concentration, the mass ratio of monomer to cellulose, preparation temperature and time are discussed. In addition, the graft copolymers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The grafting bagasse cellulose has the advantage of being biodegradable and has low cost of raw materials. Its absorbent properties are an attractive alternative for wastewater treatment and avoids environmental pollution.