Yes, you can absolutely put plants in water, and many types can flourish in this medium. This method, often referred to as hydroponics or water propagation, allows you to grow plants without soil.
As the reference states, to put plants in water, you should "simply put the roots of your plant into water—making sure the foliage isn't also submerged—and watch as they flourish." While these specific growing conditions are not suitable for every type of houseplant, there are indeed a few beautiful options that can thrive as hydroponic plants.
How to Successfully Grow Plants in Water
Growing plants in water is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to a few key details to ensure your plant's success:
- Submerge Roots Only: The most crucial step is to ensure that only the roots are submerged in water. Any foliage that sits in the water can rot, leading to plant death.
- Choose the Right Plant: Not all plants are suitable for long-term water growing. Select plants known to thrive in water, particularly those often used for propagation.
- Use Clean Water: Tap water is generally fine, but some prefer distilled or filtered water. Ensure the water is free of chlorine if possible.
- Regular Water Changes: Change the water every 1-2 weeks to replenish oxygen and remove any accumulated impurities. This also helps prevent algae growth.
- Provide Adequate Light: Just like soil-grown plants, water-grown plants need appropriate light. Most prefer bright, indirect light.
- Consider Nutrients (for long-term growth): While plants can survive on water alone for a while by using stored energy, for long-term health and robust growth, they will eventually need nutrients. A few drops of liquid hydroponic fertilizer added during water changes can provide essential minerals.
Popular Plants That Thrive in Water
Many common houseplants are excellent candidates for water propagation and long-term water growing. Here are some popular options:
| Plant Name | Key Characteristics & Tips |
|---|---|
| Pothos | Extremely easy to root and grow in water. Roots quickly. Many varieties exist. |
| Philodendron | Similar to Pothos, they are vining plants that readily root in water. |
| Lucky Bamboo | Often sold growing in water. Requires consistent water levels and indirect light. |
| Spider Plant | The 'spiderettes' (baby plants) produced by mature plants root very easily in water. |
| Coleus | Known for their vibrant, colorful foliage, Coleus cuttings root quickly in water. |
| Impatiens | Annuals that can be easily propagated from cuttings in water for indoor display. |
| African Violet | A single leaf can be placed in water to root and eventually grow a new plant. |
Benefits of Water Propagation and Growing
Growing plants in water offers several advantages:
- Cleanliness: No soil means no mess, making it ideal for indoor spaces, offices, or those with allergies.
- Pest Reduction: Eliminates soil-borne pests like fungus gnats.
- Ease of Monitoring: You can easily observe root development and overall plant health.
- Decorative Appeal: Clear glass containers allow the root systems to be a visually appealing part of the display.
- Simplicity: It can be a very hands-off method once established, requiring only regular water changes.
