Complete Gardening
Growing plants in water — a method known as hydroponics — is a creative and space-saving way to enjoy lush greenery without the mess of soil. Perfect for small apartments, urban living, or anyone who wants to try something new, this technique allows plants to thrive indoors with minimal maintenance. By learning which plants adapt best to water-based growth, you can create a gorgeous, low-maintenance indoor garden that purifies the air and adds natural beauty to your home.
Benefits of Growing Plants in Water
There are plenty of advantages to water-grown plants. They’re cleaner, easier to care for, and more resistant to pests and diseases than traditional soil plants. Because you control the water quality and nutrients, plants grow healthier and stronger. This method also saves water overall, as it prevents excess runoff and evaporation. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to see roots growing visibly in clear jars or vases.
1. Spider Plant – The Low-Maintenance Air Purifier
Spider plants are nearly indestructible and adapt easily to growing in water. Simply place a cutting with a few leaves in a glass jar, making sure the roots are submerged. They also purify indoor air, removing toxins while adding a touch of green freshness to your home.
2. Snake Plant – Tough, Stylish, and Effortless
Known for their sleek appearance and hardiness, snake plants thrive in low light and grow perfectly in water. Cut a leaf near the base and let it stand in water with the cut end submerged. These plants not only look stunning but also help remove indoor pollutants.
3. Pothos – The Easiest Indoor Vine
Pothos is a favorite among plant lovers for its fast growth and gorgeous trailing vines. Place a cutting with at least one node into a jar of water and watch it flourish. It’s ideal for hanging planters or shelves with indirect light.
4. Lucky Bamboo – The Symbol of Prosperity
Though not a true bamboo, Dracaena sanderiana (Lucky Bamboo) is one of the most popular water-grown plants. Place stalks in a vase filled with pebbles for support and enough water to cover the roots. Change the water every two weeks for best results.
5. Philodendron – The Adaptable Houseplant
Philodendrons are incredibly easy to grow in water. Take a few cuttings with leaves attached, place them in a vase, and let the roots develop. They love indirect light and grow fast, making them ideal for brightening up any corner.
6. English Ivy – The Elegant Climber
This timeless plant with graceful vines grows beautifully in water. Keep your cutting in a glass container filled with water and change it weekly. English ivy thrives in cool, indirect light and adds a touch of old-world charm indoors.
7. Peace Lily – Elegant and Purifying
With glossy green leaves and white blooms, peace lilies are both beautiful and functional. Place their roots in water and change it regularly to prevent rot. They help clean indoor air and grow well in moderate light.
8. Chinese Evergreen – The Perfect Beginner Plant
Chinese evergreens adapt easily to different light levels and are simple to grow in water. Just submerge the roots in clean water and change it often. Their patterned leaves add instant tropical beauty to any space.
9. Coleus – Bursting with Color
Known for its bright, patterned leaves, coleus thrives in water. Cut a few stems and place them in a jar with fresh water. Keep it near bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant hues.
10. Wandering Jew – Vibrant and Fast-Growing
This striking plant features silver and purple leaves that shimmer in the light. It grows quickly in water and makes a bold statement in glass vases. Refresh the water weekly to keep it healthy and vibrant.
11. Mint – Fresh and Fragrant
Mint grows easily in water, providing a steady supply for teas, desserts, and dishes. Place a few sprigs in a glass of water and keep them in bright light. Trim often to encourage new growth.
12. Basil – The Kitchen Essential
Basil loves sunlight and grows well in water. Simply place cuttings in a jar and refresh the water every few days. It’s perfect for adding a fragrant, edible touch to your kitchen windowsill.
13. Begonia – Beautiful and Decorative
With its colorful leaves and unique textures, begonia is a stunning choice for water propagation. Place leaf cuttings in water and keep them in bright, indirect light for best results.
14. Sweet Potato Vine – Fast and Fun to Grow
Stick the end of a sweet potato in water and watch the vines sprout! This plant grows quickly and makes a fun addition to any indoor garden with its cascading leaves and vibrant color.
15. African Violet – Delicate Blooms in Water
African violets can be propagated easily in water from leaf cuttings. Their soft, colorful flowers add charm and beauty to any room. Keep the jar in indirect light and change the water weekly to prevent root rot.
Transitioning Plants to Water Growth
To move plants from soil to water, gently wash off all dirt from the roots. Place them in a clean container with filtered or rainwater, ensuring the roots are submerged. Avoid tap water if it contains chlorine, as it can harm plant roots.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Water-Grown Plants
- Change the water every 7–10 days.
- Use clear containers to watch root growth (or opaque ones to prevent algae).
- Provide bright, indirect light.
- Add a few drops of liquid fertilizer monthly for nutrients.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
If roots start turning brown, change the water immediately and trim off any damaged parts. To prevent algae, use darker containers or keep plants away from direct sunlight. If growth slows, add a mild fertilizer or refresh the water more often.
Conclusion – A Greener Home, No Soil Required
Growing plants in water is a simple, beautiful way to bring life indoors — no soil, no mess, just pure greenery. With the right care and attention, these 15 plants will thrive in your home, creating a peaceful, low-maintenance oasis of natural beauty.
