Whether you’re short on space, prefer a soil-free environment, or want to try something new, hydroponics is a great way to enjoy greenery in your home. From ornamental plants to aromatic herbs, a wide range of plants can grow without soil. Read on to learn more about these 12 hydroponic houseplants that not only beautify your space but also demonstrate nature’s incredible adaptability.
Aglaonemas
Aglaonemas, or Chinese evergreens, are indoor plants with beautiful patterned leaves. These plants thrive in water as long as you keep the water clean to ensure the roots receive all necessary nutrients. You can also use water or gel beads if your glaonemas struggle to grow in water alone. To grow a Chinese evergreen in water, cut a six-inch stem, ensure a couple of inches are submerged, and some leaves are above the waterline. Replace the water as needed.
Coleus
Coleus is a popular houseplant admired for its vibrant foliage and low-maintenance nature. It can indeed grow well in water. Take a 6-inch cutting, remove the leaves from the bottom 4 inches, and place it in water. Keep the plant in a sunny spot and fertilize monthly for the best results. Remember to change the water frequently to keep your coleus healthy.
Syngonium
Syngonium, also known as the arrowhead plant, is a tropical plant with beautiful, spade-like leaves that can thrive in water. To grow Syngonium in water, take a healthy stem cutting just below the node and place it in a container filled with clean water. Change the water once or twice a week to keep the plant healthy. Use good quality water instead of regular tap water to avoid harmful minerals. Add a bit of liquid fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients for the plant’s growth.
String Of Hearts
The String of Hearts, also known as the Rosary vine, is a succulent. To grow it in water, take cuttings about 3-5 inches in length and ensure they have a few leaves and at least two nodes. Let the cut ends heal for 24 hours before placing them in a jar or vase filled with clean, filtered water. Only submerge the nodes to avoid rot, and change the water every 3-7 days. Place the jar in a spot with bright, filtered light. Regularly use diluted liquid fertilizer to support growth.
Basil
Growing basil in water instead of soil has several benefits. You don’t have to worry about pests that may affect the plant, and you can grow it in cooler months when it doesn’t grow outside. To grow basil in water, start with a few stem cuttings. Remove the lower leaves and place the basil cuttings in a water-filled jar, submerging two-thirds of each stem. Position the jar on a bright windowsill with plenty of morning sunlight. Change the water every two to three days, and new roots will form in about two to three weeks. Add liquid fertilizer to the water every four weeks.
Spider Plants
Growing spider plants in water might seem counterintuitive due to their drought tolerance and susceptibility to root rot. However, hydroponic spider plants can thrive with the right balance of water, nutrients, and oxygen. These plants are easy to care for and naturally produce baby plants you can snip and place in water. Ensure the leaves do not sit in the water, and change the water every three to five days to keep your spider plants healthy.
Prayer Plant
Prayer Plant is a striking plant with green leaves and red veins. To grow it in water, take a healthy cutting, remove its lower leaves, and place it in a container filled with clean, chlorine-free water. Ensure the nodes are submerged, and use gravel to stabilize the cutting. Position the jar in bright, indirect light and change the water every two weeks. For successful growth, maintain consistent water levels and keep the environment warm and humid. Add liquid houseplant fertilizer every two months.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies, characterized by white flowers and dark, glossy leaves, are popular as they are easy to look after. While typically grown in soil, they can adapt to growing in water, though they might flower less profusely. To grow peace lilies in water, take a mature plant, rinse the roots thoroughly to remove all soil, and place it in a glass container filled with clean water. Place the container in bright, indirect light. Change the water every week, and add liquid fertilizer periodically.
Pothos
Pothos thrive in water throughout their life, which can be from 5 to 10 years, with proper care. These plants are easy to propagate by placing cuttings in water. The main concerns for growing pothos in water are ensuring they receive enough nutrients and appropriate light. Bright, indirect light is ideal, as direct sunlight can burn the delicate leaves. To keep your pothos healthy, change the water every 2-3 weeks or when it appears foggy.
Crotons
Crotons are vibrant tropical plants that can be grown indoors in water. To propagate crotons, take a 4-5 inch stem cutting, remove a few leaves to focus on root growth, and place it in a glass jar filled with water. Use a container with a thin neck to hold the cutting in place. Change the water periodically and ensure proper care. After about four weeks, new roots will form.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is an aromatic plant that you can easily grow in water. Take a few stalks, cut off the top leaves about an inch from the stem, and ensure the base is intact. Place the stalks in a glass jar with 1-2 inches of water, and change the water daily. Place the jar on a windowsill. You will notice leaves growing, and roots will start forming at the base of the stalk within seven days. After a few weeks, you may notice offshoots growing, which you can use in cooking.
Lucky Bamboo
Lucky Bamboo is amongst the easiest plants to grow in water. Take a narrow vase and fill the bottom with gravel to anchor the stems. Lucky Bamboo can grow well in shallow containers with just enough water to cover the roots. Use purified or distilled water for the best results, or let tap water sit for 24 hours to evaporate chemicals. Top up the water as needed and change it if it becomes smelly.