Indoor plants bring life, color, and fresh air into our living spaces. But what if you don’t have time or patience for traditional soil gardening? Or perhaps you want something cleaner and more modern-looking? Growing plants in water—also known as hydroponics or water propagation—is a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of houseplants with minimal fuss.
Water-grown plants are elegant, low-maintenance, and can become stunning décor elements in your home. Plus, they’re perfect for beginners who want to avoid the mess of soil or those with limited space.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best indoor plants to grow in water, explain how to care for them, and share expert tips to keep your water plants thriving. Whether you’re a plant newbie or a seasoned green thumb, you’ll find all you need to know right here!
Why Grow Plants in Water?
Before diving into the list of plants, it’s important to understand the benefits of growing plants in water:
- No soil mess: Water plants eliminate dirt spills and the need to buy or change potting soil.
- Easier pest control: Fewer soil-borne pests and diseases to worry about.
- Space-efficient: Water plants can thrive in small containers and narrow vases.
- Aesthetic appeal: Transparent containers showcase roots and create a modern, minimalist vibe.
- Propagation made easy: Water is perfect for starting cuttings and nurturing new growth.
- Cleaner air: Many water plants still purify indoor air effectively.
However, not all plants adapt well to water culture. Some prefer soil and may eventually weaken if grown only in water. This guide focuses on the best plants that truly thrive in a water environment.
How to Grow Plants Successfully in Water
To maximize your success with indoor water plants, here are key steps to follow:
Step 1: Choose the Right Plant
Select plants known for tolerating or thriving in water. We’ll cover the top choices in the next section.
Step 2: Prepare Your Container
Use clean, clear glass containers like jars, vases, or even specialized hydroponic pots. Transparency helps monitor root health and water levels.
Step 3: Use Clean Water
Tap water is usually fine, but if your water is heavily chlorinated, let it sit for 24 hours before use or use filtered water.
Step 4: Change the Water Regularly
Replace the water every 1-2 weeks to prevent stagnation and bacterial buildup.
Step 5: Provide Adequate Light
Most water plants need bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct harsh sun which can overheat water and stress roots.
Step 6: Add Nutrients Occasionally
Water lacks the nutrients soil provides. Use a diluted liquid fertilizer specifically for hydroponic or water-grown plants once a month.
Step 7: Monitor Roots and Growth
Healthy roots are white or light tan. Brown, slimy roots indicate rot—trim these immediately.
Top 15 Best Indoor Plants to Grow in Water
Here are the best indoor plants you can successfully grow and propagate in water, perfect for brightening any room.
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is the ultimate beginner-friendly indoor plant. It’s virtually indestructible and grows vigorously in water.
- Why it’s great in water: Pothos roots quickly in water and tolerates low light.
- Care tips: Change water biweekly and prune to maintain shape. Can grow long vines for stunning hanging displays.
2. Philodendron
Philodendrons, especially the heartleaf variety, adapt very well to water culture.
- Why it’s great: Rooting occurs quickly; foliage stays lush and vibrant.
- Care tips: Keep in bright, indirect light. Trim roots and clean leaves regularly.
3. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Not actually bamboo, but a Dracaena species, Lucky Bamboo is iconic for growing in water.
- Why it’s great: Thrives fully submerged with minimal care. Symbol of luck and prosperity.
- Care tips: Use distilled or filtered water. Keep out of direct sunlight.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are hardy and easy to propagate in water through their “spiderettes.”
- Why it’s great: Fast root development on baby plants.
- Care tips: Change water often to avoid rot. Bright indirect light preferred.
5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is a climbing plant that grows well in water.
- Why it’s great: Can root from cuttings and adds trailing greenery.
- Care tips: Provide bright light. Keep water fresh.
6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Known for their tolerance to low light and air purification, Chinese Evergreens can be grown in water for a unique look.
- Why it’s great: Adapts well to water with occasional nutrient feeding.
- Care tips: Use clean water, indirect light, and feed monthly.
7. Tradescantia (Wandering Jew)
With vibrant purple or green leaves, Tradescantia grows rapidly in water.
- Why it’s great: Rooting happens within days, and vines trail beautifully.
- Care tips: Bright, indirect light enhances leaf color. Change water regularly.
8. Coleus
Coleus is famous for its brightly colored foliage and grows nicely in water for propagation.
- Why it’s great: Fast rooting and striking foliage make it a decorative favorite.
- Care tips: Provide good light and avoid stagnant water.
9. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace Lilies can grow in water but need nutrient supplementation to thrive long term.
- Why it’s great: Grows beautiful white blooms and purifies air.
- Care tips: Use a clean container, change water frequently, and add fertilizer.
10. Mint (Mentha)
Mint is an aromatic herb that grows fast in water and can be harvested frequently.
- Why it’s great: Easy to root and doubles as a kitchen plant.
- Care tips: Bright light and water changes prevent smell and rot.
11. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Another kitchen favorite, basil roots readily in water and thrives indoors.
- Why it’s great: Easy propagation and fresh leaves year-round.
- Care tips: Change water every few days and ensure good light.
12. Coleus
Coleus grows well in water and boasts bright foliage colors.
- Why it’s great: Makes a beautiful ornamental plant in water containers.
- Care tips: Provide adequate light and keep water fresh.
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