Houseplants are a wonderful way to bring nature into your home, but not everyone has the time or expertise to care for soil-based plants. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution for those seeking low-maintenance greenery—houseplants that grow in water.
These water-loving plants require minimal care and can thrive in various environments, making them ideal for busy lifestyles or for those who are new to indoor gardening. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best houseplants that grow in water, how to care for them, and why they make such a fantastic addition to your home.
1. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky Bamboo is one of the most popular houseplants that can grow in water. Despite its name, it’s not actually bamboo but rather a type of Dracaena. Lucky Bamboo is prized for its unique, twisted stems and its ability to thrive in a variety of indoor environments. It’s often associated with good fortune and feng shui, making it a common choice for homes and offices.
To grow Lucky Bamboo in water, simply place the stalks in a container with about an inch or two of water, ensuring that the roots are submerged. It’s best to use distilled or filtered water, as chlorine in tap water can harm the plant. Keep the plant in indirect sunlight and change the water every two weeks to prevent stagnation and keep your Lucky Bamboo healthy.
2. Pothos
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is another excellent houseplant that grows well in water. This plant is incredibly versatile and easy to care for, making it a favorite among indoor gardeners. Pothos has heart-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, and white variegations. Its trailing vines make it perfect for hanging baskets or training along shelves.
To grow Pothos in water, take a cutting from a healthy plant just below a node (where the leaf meets the stem). Place the cutting in a jar or vase with enough water to cover the nodes, as this is where new roots will form. Place the jar in a location with bright, indirect light, and change the water every two weeks. With time, your Pothos cutting will develop a healthy root system and can continue to grow in water indefinitely.
3. Philodendron
Philodendrons are another group of plants that thrive in water. These tropical beauties are known for their large, glossy leaves and their ability to adapt to a variety of indoor conditions. The heartleaf Philodendron, in particular, is a popular choice for water propagation due to its resilience and attractive foliage.
To grow a Philodendron in water, take a cutting with at least two or three nodes and remove any leaves that would be submerged in water. Place the cutting in a jar or glass with water, making sure that the nodes are submerged. Like Pothos, Philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light and require regular water changes to keep them healthy. As the plant grows, you can trim back the vines to encourage bushier growth.
4. Peace Lily
Peace Lilies are elegant plants known for their glossy green leaves and striking white flowers. While they are typically grown in soil, Peace Lilies can also thrive in water with a little extra care. Growing a Peace Lily in water not only showcases its beauty but also eliminates the risk of overwatering—a common issue with soil-grown plants.
To grow a Peace Lily in water, remove the plant from its pot and gently wash the soil from the roots. Place the plant in a container with enough water to cover the roots, but ensure that the base of the plant is above the water line to prevent rot. Peace Lilies prefer low to moderate light and will need their water changed every two weeks. With the right care, your Peace Lily will produce its signature white blooms even when grown in water.
5. English Ivy
English Ivy is a classic plant that can adapt to water-based growth. Known for its trailing vines and lush green leaves, English Ivy is often used in indoor and outdoor gardens to add greenery to walls, trellises, and hanging baskets. It’s also a fast grower, making it a great choice for those who want to see quick results.
To grow English Ivy in water, take a cutting with several leaves and place it in a jar with water, making sure the nodes are submerged. English Ivy prefers cooler temperatures and indirect light, so keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching the leaves. Change the water regularly to keep it fresh, and within a few weeks, your ivy will develop roots and continue to grow.
6. Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreens are prized for their striking foliage and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. These plants are typically grown in soil but can also be propagated and grown in water. Chinese Evergreens are slow-growing, making them a low-maintenance option for those looking to add greenery to their home.
To grow a Chinese Evergreen in water, take a cutting with at least one node and place it in a jar or vase with water, ensuring the node is submerged. Chinese Evergreens prefer low to medium light, so place them in a location with indirect sunlight. Change the water every two weeks to keep it clean and provide your plant with the best conditions for growth.
7. Spider Plant
Spider Plants are known for their arching green and white striped leaves and their ability to produce “pups,” or baby plants, that dangle from the mother plant. These plants are not only easy to care for in soil but can also be grown in water, making them a versatile addition to your indoor garden.
To grow a Spider Plant in water, start with one of the pups. Cut the pup from the mother plant, ensuring it has some root growth. Place the pup in a glass of water, with just the roots submerged. Spider Plants prefer bright, indirect light, and their water should be changed every two weeks. As the plant grows, you can transfer it to soil or continue to enjoy it in water.
8. Wandering Jew
Wandering Jew is a colorful, vining plant with purple and silver-striped leaves. It’s a fast grower and can thrive in water, making it an eye-catching addition to your home. The vibrant colors of Wandering Jew can add a pop of color to any space, and its trailing vines make it ideal for hanging baskets or placing on high shelves.
To grow Wandering Jew in water, take a cutting with several nodes and place it in a jar with enough water to cover the nodes. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and will quickly develop roots. Change the water every two weeks to keep it fresh, and your Wandering Jew will continue to thrive.
9. Mint
Mint is an herb that not only grows well in water but also provides a fresh aroma and a useful culinary ingredient. Whether you use it in cooking, for making tea, or simply to enjoy its fragrance, mint is a versatile plant that’s easy to grow indoors.
To grow mint in water, take a cutting from a healthy plant and place it in a glass of water with the nodes submerged. Mint prefers bright, indirect light and will quickly develop roots. Change the water every
week to keep it fresh, and you’ll soon have a thriving mint plant ready for use. You can also snip off leaves as needed for recipes, ensuring your mint plant remains bushy and healthy.
10. Basil
Basil is another popular herb that can easily be grown in water. Known for its aromatic leaves, basil is a staple in many kitchens and can be used in a variety of dishes. Growing basil in water allows you to keep fresh herbs on hand without the need for soil or extensive care.
To grow basil in water, take a cutting from a mature plant just below a leaf node. Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring that the nodes are submerged. Basil prefers bright, indirect light, so place it near a sunny window. Change the water regularly to keep it fresh, and your basil cutting will develop roots within a couple of weeks. As it grows, you can harvest the leaves for cooking, and the plant will continue to thrive.
Advantages of Growing Houseplants in Water
Growing houseplants in water offers several benefits, especially for those who may not have a green thumb or the time to care for soil-based plants. Here are some advantages:
- Low Maintenance: Water-grown plants require less attention than those grown in soil. There’s no need to worry about overwatering or underwatering, as the plants take up what they need from the water.
- Pest-Free: Growing plants in water reduces the risk of soil-borne pests, making it easier to maintain healthy plants indoors.
- Cleaner: Without soil, there’s no mess from potting, repotting, or accidental spills, making water-grown plants a cleaner option for indoor gardening.
- Decorative: Plants grown in water can be displayed in transparent containers, allowing you to see the roots and create a visually appealing display. Glass jars, vases, and bottles can add an extra decorative element to your home.
- Space-Saving: Many water-grown plants, like Pothos and Spider Plants, can be grown in small containers, making them perfect for tight spaces or small apartments.
Final Thoughts on Growing Houseplants in Water
Growing houseplants in water is an excellent way to enjoy greenery in your home with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance option or simply want to experiment with new gardening techniques, water-grown plants can bring beauty and life to any indoor space. With proper care, these plants will thrive, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of indoor gardening without the hassle of soil. So, why not give it a try? Start with a few cuttings, place them in water, and watch as your home transforms into a green oasis.
FAQs about Houseplants That Grow in Water
What are the best houseplants to grow in water?
Some of the best houseplants to grow in water include Pothos, Philodendron, Lucky Bamboo, Peace Lily, and Spider Plant. These plants are easy to care for and thrive in water-based environments.
How often should I change the water for plants grown in water?
It’s recommended to change the water every two weeks. This prevents stagnation, keeps the water fresh, and helps prevent the growth of algae or bacteria.
Can all houseplants grow in water?
Not all houseplants can grow in water. While many tropical and vining plants adapt well to water, others may struggle without soil. It’s essential to research individual plant needs before attempting to grow them in water.
Do I need to add fertilizer to water-grown plants?
Yes, adding a diluted liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks can provide essential nutrients that the plants would typically get from soil. This helps ensure healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Can water-grown plants be transferred to soil later?
Yes, many water-grown plants can be transferred to soil. When transferring, make sure to acclimate the plant by slowly introducing it to soil and providing consistent care to help it adjust to the new environment.
