Indoor gardening offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature inside your home. Among the most effortless ways to cultivate greenery indoors is by growing plants in water. This method eliminates the mess of soil and provides a stylish and minimalist way to display plants. Here, we explore the 10 best indoor plants to grow in water, each offering unique benefits and requiring minimal effort for successful growth.
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
One of the easiest plants to grow in water, Pothos is a favorite among beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts alike. Known for its heart-shaped leaves and vining growth habit, Pothos thrives when simply placed in a container of water. All you need to do is cut a healthy stem below a node, remove the bottom leaves, and submerge the cut end in water. Place it in bright, indirect sunlight, and within a few weeks, roots will begin to develop. As it grows, its trailing vines will cascade beautifully, adding a touch of elegance to any room.
2. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Despite its name, Lucky Bamboo isn’t technically bamboo but a member of the Dracaena family. It is one of the most popular water-growing plants due to its hardy nature and association with good fortune and Feng Shui. Lucky Bamboo is often sold in decorative arrangements and can grow for years in water. Use distilled or filtered water for the best results and keep the plant in a well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight.
3. Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
Another beloved houseplant, the Philodendron, is a low-maintenance option perfect for water propagation. It shares similar characteristics with Pothos and can grow in water for extended periods. Simply snip a cutting below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water. The heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines add a lush, tropical vibe to your interior spaces.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Known for its air-purifying qualities and adaptability, the Spider Plant is a fantastic candidate for growing in water. This resilient plant produces “babies” or plantlets that can be easily propagated in water. Snip off a plantlet and place it in a container of water. Over time, it will develop roots and continue to grow, making it an excellent decorative piece for any room.
5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy is not just for outdoor use; it can thrive indoors when grown in water. With its iconic, trailing vines and lobed leaves, it can add a touch of sophistication to any interior space. Choose a healthy stem cutting, place it in water, and watch it take root in a few weeks. English Ivy prefers cooler indoor temperatures, making it ideal for shaded or cooler areas of your home.
6. Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas)
Sweet Potato Vines are not only an ornamental plant but a versatile addition to indoor water gardens. Place a sweet potato in a container of water, and soon you will witness vibrant green or purple foliage emerging. Its colorful leaves make it an attractive addition to a sunny windowsill or as part of a centerpiece arrangement.
7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Known for its lush, variegated foliage, the Chinese Evergreen is a hardy plant that adapts well to water growth. Cut a stem with healthy leaves and place it in water. The plant thrives in low light and low humidity, making it an excellent option for offices and rooms with less natural sunlight.
8. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina)
The striking purple and silver foliage of the Wandering Jew makes it a popular plant for water propagation. With its vining habit, it can be grown in glass containers or hanging planters. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a pop of color to their indoor garden. Simply snip a cutting, remove the bottom leaves, and place it in water for roots to develop.
9. Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
Coleus is widely known for its vibrantly colored leaves, ranging from deep purples to bright greens and reds. This plant can be grown in water, making it an excellent decorative addition to your home. Choose healthy stems, and within a couple of weeks, they will root and continue to thrive.
10. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The elegant Peace Lily is a perfect choice for water propagation. It is well-known for its air-purifying qualities and beautiful white blooms. Though it is more commonly grown in soil, the Peace Lily can thrive in water, provided its roots are kept submerged and the water is regularly refreshed.
Conclusion
Growing plants in water is a simple and mess-free way to incorporate greenery into your home. These 10 plants not only thrive in water but also offer a beautiful aesthetic to your indoor spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or a beginner, there’s a perfect plant for every level of experience.