Imagine transforming your home into a lush, green oasis without ever touching a bag of soil. Plants that grow in water offer a mess-free, low-maintenance way to bring nature indoors, perfect for beginners or anyone tired of traditional gardening hassles. Whether you’re propagating cuttings or growing houseplants hydroponically, this guide unveils 15 of the best plants that thrive in water, along with actionable tips to ensure success. You’ll learn why these plants are ideal, how to care for them, and how to create stunning displays—all while keeping your space dirt-free. Ready to dive into this soil-less adventure? Let’s explore!
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Why Choose Plants That Grow In Water?
Growing plants in water, often called hydroponic gardening, isn’t just a trend—it’s a practical solution. It skips the mess of soil, reduces pest issues like fungus gnats, and simplifies care for forgetful waterers. Plus, transparent vases or jars turn root systems into living decor, blending functionality with style. Plants that grow in water adapt to constant moisture, making them resilient and forgiving. Whether you’re a busy professional or a plant enthusiast, this method delivers vibrant greenery with minimal effort. check out Cultivate Your Green Oasis: Creative Container Gardening Ideas.
Top 15 Plants That Grow In Water
Here’s a curated list of 15 amazing indoor plants that grow in water, complete with care tips and examples to inspire you.
Pothos
Pothos, with its cascading heart-shaped leaves, tops the list of plants that grow in water. Known for rapid growth (up to a foot per month!), it thrives in a jar of water with bright, indirect light. visit the Missouri Botanical Garden’s pothos guide.
- Care Tip: Change the water every 7-10 days to prevent stagnation.
- Example: Place a variegated pothos cutting in a tall glass vase on your kitchen counter for a pop of green.
Spider Plant
Spider plants produce “pups” perfect for water propagation. Their arching, striped leaves add texture to any space.
- Care Tip: Use non-chlorinated water and trim roots if they overgrow the container.
- Example: Snip a pup and grow it in a shallow dish with pebbles for stability.
Lucky Bamboo
This dracaena species brings elegance and good fortune to your home. Lucky bamboo thrives in water with minimal light requirements.
- Care Tip: Anchor it with pebbles and refresh the water weekly.
- Example: Display three stalks in a narrow vase on your desk for a Feng Shui boost.
Philodendron
Philodendrons, especially heartleaf varieties, are stars among plants that grow in water. Their trailing vines flourish in low to bright light.
- Care Tip: Add a drop of water-soluble fertilizer monthly.
- Example: Grow a cutting in a clear bottle to watch roots weave through the water.
Peace Lily
With glossy leaves and white blooms, peace lilies adapt beautifully to water. Keep the base above water and roots submerged.
- Care Tip: Rinse roots monthly to keep them healthy.
- Example: Use a narrow-necked vase for a minimalist bathroom accent.
Monstera
Monstera cuttings, like the Swiss cheese plant, root quickly in water, showcasing their iconic perforated leaves.
- Care Tip: Trim roots if they fill the container; provide bright, indirect light.
- Example: Place a Monstera adansonii cutting in a wide jar for a cascading effect.
Chinese Evergreen
Known for colorful, cane-like stems, Chinese evergreens thrive in water with little fuss.
- Care Tip: Keep in indirect light to maintain vibrant foliage.
- Example: Grow a pink-streaked variety in a glass bowl for a bold statement.
Coleus
Coleus offers vivid foliage and roots easily in water, making it a beginner-friendly pick.
- Care Tip: Place in a sunny spot and fertilize monthly.
- Example: Propagate a purple coleus cutting in a mason jar for a vibrant windowsill display.
Wandering Jew
This fast-growing plant with purple-green leaves loves water and adds a trailing charm.
- Care Tip: Prune regularly to control growth; change water every 5-7 days.
- Example: Hang a cutting in a test tube vase for a modern touch.
English Ivy
English ivy’s climbing vines root effortlessly in water, purifying air as they grow.
- Care Tip: Ensure 4+ hours of indirect sunlight daily.
- Example: Train it around a small trellis in a water-filled jar.
Begonia
Begonias, especially rex varieties, root in water and dazzle with patterned leaves.
- Care Tip: Start in a small container, then upscale as roots develop.
- Example: Grow a polka-dot begonia in a clear cup for a quirky accent.
Sweetheart Hoya
Heart-shaped leaves make this plant a romantic favorite among plants that grow in water.
- Care Tip: Keep temperatures between 68-75°F; fertilize monthly.
- Example: Gift a cutting in a heart-shaped vase for Valentine’s Day.
Snake Plant
Snake plant stems root in water, offering upright, variegated beauty.
- Care Tip: Opt for partial sun to shade; change water weekly.
- Example: Grow a single stem in a tall cylinder for a sleek look.
Arrowhead Plant
Arrowhead plants adapt to water with their arrow-shaped leaves and vining growth.
- Care Tip: Use filtered water and bright, indirect light.
- Example: Place in a wide vase to showcase its spreading roots.
Water Hyacinth
This floating aquatic plant dazzles with purple flowers and cleans water naturally.
- Care Tip: Provide moderate light and add liquid fertilizer occasionally.
- Example: Float it in a glass bowl for a serene tabletop feature.
How to Grow Plants in Water Successfully
Ready to start? Here’s how to ensure your plants that grow in water thrive:
Choosing the Right Container
Any watertight vessel works—glass jars, vases, or bottles. Glass lets you admire roots but may encourage algae; opaque options are lower maintenance.
- Tip: Narrow-necked containers support stems; add pebbles for stability.
Water Quality and Maintenance
Use non-chlorinated water (let tap water sit overnight) and change it every 5-10 days to keep it fresh.
- Tip: Add activated charcoal to the base to maintain clarity.
Light and Nutrient Needs
Check each plant’s light preferences—most prefer bright, indirect light. Supplement with a diluted water-soluble fertilizer every 3-4 weeks.
- Tip: Avoid direct sun to prevent overheating the water.
Benefits of Growing Plants in Water
Why go soil-less? Plants that grow in water save time, reduce mess, and deter pests. They’re perfect for small spaces like apartments or offices, and their exposed roots double as decor. Plus, they’re forgiving—ideal for plant parents who over- or under-water.
Key Takeaways
- Versatility: Plants like pothos, philodendron, and spider plants thrive indefinitely in water.
- Low Maintenance: Regular water changes and minimal fertilizing keep them healthy.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Transparent containers turn roots into a visual centerpiece.
- Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for anyone new to gardening or short on space.
Conclusion
Plants that grow in water redefine indoor gardening with their simplicity and charm. From the trailing vines of pothos to the bold blooms of peace lilies, these 15 picks prove you don’t need soil to cultivate beauty. Start with a cutting, a jar, and a splash of water—your home will thank you. Ready to try it? Pick your favorite from this list, set up your first water garden, and share your results—or explore more plant care tips on our site!