Dive into the delightful world of water gardening with our guide on the best plants to grow in water! If you’re someone who loves the idea of indoor plants but not the mess of soil, growing plants in water might just be the perfect solution for you.
This method, known as hydroculture, not only keeps your home clean and green but also allows you to watch the fascinating process of roots developing right before your eyes. From leafy greens to flowing vines, let’s explore the magical realm of plants that thrive in nothing but a vase filled with water.
Growing plants in water is practically low maintenance. You can have a lush indoor garden that requires no weeding, no soil-borne diseases, and minimal pests. All you need are a few glass jars, some tap water, and a bit of patience. This blog will walk you through some of the most popular and easy-to-grow water plants, making it simple for anyone to start their own water garden.
Get ready to transform your living space with these beautiful, soil-free green wonders!
Best Plants to Grow in Water
1. Monstera
Monstera, often referred to as the “Swiss cheese plant,” is a tropical plant that adapts beautifully to hydroculture. Known for its dramatic, heart-shaped leaves with unique perforations, Monstera thrives in a glass jar or vase filled with water, making it a striking addition to any room.
This plant prefers indirect light, which makes it ideal for indoor settings where direct sunlight doesn’t reach.
When growing Monstera in water, it’s crucial to change the water every few weeks to prevent algae growth and keep the root system healthy. The roots of Monstera are quite vigorous and provide a fascinating view when placed in a transparent container.
Pro Tip: Just add a few drops of liquid fertilizer every now and then, and watch your Monstera flourish, bringing a touch of the jungle into your home.
2. Wandering Jew
The Wandering Jew, or Tradescantia, is a fast-growing plant that makes an excellent choice for water cultivation. Its leaves display a stunning array of purple, silver, and green, which can brighten any corner of your home.
This vining plant loves to sprawl, making it perfect for hanging glass containers where its trailing vines can cascade beautifully.
This plant is particularly forgiving and can thrive with minimal care, making it a favorite among new and seasoned gardeners alike. Its rapid growth can offer gratifying results quickly, providing instant decoration and satisfaction.
Pro Tip: To successfully grow a Wandering Jew in water, ensure the container receives bright indirect light and fresh water regularly. T
3. Water Hyacinth
Water Hyacinth is an aquatic plant that is as beautiful as it is easy to grow in water. Known for its thick, glossy, lime green leaves and striking purple flowers, it can turn any water garden into a lush paradise.
Water Hyacinths float on the surface of the water with their roots dangling freely, purifying the water as they grow.
This plant is perfect for outdoor ponds but can also be grown indoors in large glass containers where it can get plenty of light. Enjoy the lovely blooms throughout the warmer months, and watch as it transforms your water garden into a vibrant, flowering display.
Pro Tip: Remember, though, Water Hyacinth grows quickly and can overtake other plants, so it might need more frequent pruning to keep it in check.
4. English Ivy
English Ivy is a classic choice for a water-grown plant due to its adaptable and hardy nature. This evergreen vine will thrive in a glass jar filled with water, requiring only indirect sunlight and occasional water changes.
Its dense foliage, which can range from deep green to variegated, adds a touch of elegance and is particularly effective at purifying the air.
The simplicity of care and the sophisticated look of English Ivy make it a great addition to any indoor garden, especially if you’re looking for plants that require little direct light.
Pro Tip: When setting up your English Ivy in water, choose a stem cutting with several leaves and place it in a jar or vase filled with tap or bottled water.
5. Philodendron
Philodendrons are the heart of many indoor plant collections due to their diverse leaf shapes and ease of care. These plants adapt wonderfully to hydroponic setups, growing lush and vibrant in a simple setup of water and a container.
They are particularly forgiving and can grow in a range of lighting conditions, though they do best in bright, indirect sunlight.
This will help prevent root rot and ensure your plant remains a healthy, green centrepiece in your home. With their cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, philodendrons make a visually stunning addition to any room, proving that a thriving garden doesn’t always require soil.
Pro Tip: To keep your philodendron healthy in water, change the water regularly and make sure the roots do not become congested in the container.
6. Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a graceful plant that grows exceptionally well in water. Renowned for its ability to improve indoor air quality, this plant features glossy leaves and occasional beautiful white flowers.
It’s a fantastic option for those looking to grow plants in water, as it can thrive in low light conditions and only requires occasional fresh water to keep its roots moist.
Change the water every couple of weeks to prevent the build-up of harmful pathogens, and enjoy this plant’s stunning display and air-purifying benefits.
Pro Tip: For the best results, place your Peace Lily in a glass vase in a spot with indirect light and watch as it grows roots and new leaves.
7. Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, or Sansevieria, is another superb choice for growing in water. Known for its striking, upright leaves and exceptional durability, it can easily adapt to hydroponic growth. Snake Plants are not only stylish but also incredibly efficient at filtering indoor air, making them a popular choice for homes and offices.
To grow a Snake Plant in water, simply take a few cuttings of the plant, ensuring each piece has a bit of root attached, and place them in a glass jar or vase with water. This makes them ideal for both novice gardeners and those with busy lifestyles.
Pro Tip: They require very little maintenance, thrive in both low light and direct sun, and only need their water changed every few weeks.
8. Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is one of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow in water. Its ability to produce roots and new plants quickly makes it particularly satisfying to watch.
Spider Plants are known for their arching leaves and baby plantlets that dangle from the mother plant like spiders on a web, which are perfect for transferring to water.
To start your Spider Plant in water, select a few plantlets and place them in a container filled with clean water. With minimal effort, your Spider Plant will flourish, creating a lively and engaging display in any room.
Pro Tip: Ensure the container receives indirect sunlight, and change the water regularly to maintain optimal growth.
9. Pothos
Pothos, with its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines, is a popular plant for growing in water due to its simplicity and beauty. It’s incredibly forgiving and can thrive in a range of light conditions, from low light to bright, indirect light. Pothos is also effective at purifying the air, making it a healthy addition to your indoor environment.
Growing Pothos in water is as simple as placing a cutting in a glass jar filled with water. This easy-to-care-for plant is perfect for beginners and can add a touch of green to any space with minimal effort.
Pro Tip: Make sure to change the water every few weeks to prevent root rot and replenish nutrients.
Conclusion
Growing plants in water is an exciting way to cultivate an indoor garden without the mess and maintenance of traditional soil-based gardening. From the elegant Monstera to the air-purifying Peace Lily, there are plenty of options to create a vibrant, green space in your home.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or a curious beginner, these water-grown plants offer a simple, yet satisfying way to enhance your living environment. Enjoy the serene beauty of your new plants, and embrace the ease of hydroculture as part of your daily life. Happy planting!
