Best Indoor Plants to Grow in Water

10 Easy Indoor Plants to Grow in Water for a Refreshing, Modern Look

Say goodbye to messy soil and hello to effortless greenery with these 10 water-loving indoor plants. Perfect for busy plant lovers or anyone new to gardening, these low-maintenance beauties thrive in just a jar of water.

They bring a fresh, minimalist vibe to any space, whether perched on a sunlit windowsill or decorating a sleek shelf. Not only are they incredibly easy to care for, but they also add a touch of nature’s elegance to your home.

Ready to enjoy the beauty of plants without the hassle? These water-growing wonders are here to brighten your space.

10 Indoor Plants That Grow in Water: Easy and Low-Maintenance Options

Bring nature indoors with these 10 easy-care plants that thrive in water. Perfect for low-maintenance gardening, these plants will add greenery to your space without the need for soil.

Lucky Bamboo

Lucky Bamboo

Lucky bamboo offers an easy way to bring greenery indoors, thriving effortlessly in water.

Its ability to grow with minimal sunlight means you can place it in almost any corner of your home.

Regular water changes every two weeks keep this plant vibrant and healthy, while occasional drops of liquid fertilizer enhance its growth.

This adaptable addition brings a calming touch to your space with virtually no maintenance required.

Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

Pothos (Devil's Ivy)

Pothos makes a stunning addition to indoor water gardens, with its heart-shaped leaves adding a lush touch to any space.

Thriving even in low light, this resilient plant grows easily from cuttings placed in water.

Watching roots form over time becomes a fascinating connection to nature, while the air-purifying qualities make it a refreshing choice for your home.

Adding pothos introduces a sense of vitality that’s as practical as it is beautiful.

10 Indoor Plants That Thrive in Water

Bring nature indoors with these 10 easy-care plants that thrive in water. Perfect for low-maintenance gardening, these plants will add greenery to your space without the need for soil.

Spider Plant

Spider Plant

Spider plants charm with their graceful, arching leaves and low-maintenance care.

Propagating their baby plants, or pups, in water provides a simple and rewarding way to expand your indoor garden.

These hardy plants improve air quality while adding a lively, cascading effect to any room.

Enhancing your surroundings with spider plants creates a healthier, more vibrant space with minimal effort.

Philodendron

Philodendron

Philodendrons adapt seamlessly to water gardens, showcasing their unique beauty while requiring little care.

Cuttings placed in water soon develop roots, especially when a node is submerged.

Within weeks, you’ll see fresh growth, adding life and charm to your home.

Cultivating philodendrons not only enlivens your space but also offers a hands-on way to stay connected with nature.

Chinese Evergreen

Chinese Evergreen

Chinese evergreens bring elegance and durability to any indoor setting.

Thriving in both water and soil, they adapt to varying environments with ease.

Placing stem cuttings in water kick-starts the growth process, with roots forming beautifully within weeks.

Regular water changes keep this plant vibrant, offering a simple yet satisfying way to brighten your home with greenery.

Peace Lily

Peace Lily

White blooms make peace lilies a timeless favorite for plant enthusiasts, bringing both elegance and functionality to any space.

Known for their air-purifying abilities, these plants thrive beautifully in water.

Placing a cutting in a water-filled container allows their lush green leaves to shine while keeping care simple.

This approach invites a touch of nature indoors with minimal effort, offering beauty and tranquility for your home.

Arrowhead Plant

Arrowhead Plant

Arrowhead plants, also called syngoniums, flourish effortlessly in water.

A stem cutting with several nodes submerged in a jar encourages healthy root development.

Over time, vibrant leaves emerge above the water, showcasing the plant’s resilience and charm.

Observing its steady growth offers a rewarding way to stay connected with nature while enhancing your indoor greenery.

English Ivy

Green: Life and Renewal

English ivy thrives effortlessly in water, quickly sprouting roots from cuttings.

Its trailing vines bring natural beauty to any room, adding life to your home decor.

The adaptability of this plant makes it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.

Watching its vibrant growth creates an engaging experience, transforming your space into a lush, inviting retreat.

Wandering Jew

Wandering Jew

Wandering Jew plants offer vibrant foliage that brightens indoor spaces.

Placing cuttings in water encourages roots to form naturally, leading to thriving plants within weeks.

This simple propagation method makes it easy to expand your garden while enjoying the plant’s striking hues.

Surrounding yourself with these colorful additions creates a lively atmosphere that feels fresh and inviting.

Delicious Monster (Monstera)

Delicious Monster (Monstera)

The Delicious Monster, also known as monstera, makes a stunning centerpiece for any room.

Its large, intricate leaves bring sophistication and a bold statement to tables or shelves.

Thriving in water, this plant requires minimal care while offering maximum impact.

Adding this striking greenery elevates your surroundings and brings a sense of vitality to your space.

A Guide to Growing Plants in Water

Learn the simple steps to grow plants in water. With this easy method, you can propagate plants and enjoy a mess-free way to nurture greenery in your home.

Light

Understanding the light requirements of your selected plant is crucial for its health. Positioning it in an area that meets those needs will promote growth.

Glass containers provide a beautiful view of the roots, but they can also amplify sunlight and heat. A careful balance between natural light and protection from direct sun ensures your plant thrives without damaging its sensitive roots.

Keeping plants safe means choosing their spots wisely to foster a healthy environment.

Fertilizer

Water alone lacks the essential nutrients that plants need for growth. Regular fertilization becomes vital in hydroponic systems to ensure your plant thrives.

Choosing a balanced nutrient solution can significantly enhance its health and vigor. Monitoring water quality also plays a key role in maintaining optimal conditions for your greenery.

With attentive care, you can cultivate lush, robust plants even without traditional soil.

Temperature

Plants thrive in environments that offer consistent temperatures. Selecting the right location ensures your plant receives the warmth or coolness it needs for healthy growth.

Avoiding drastic temperature changes protects roots from stress, promoting overall vitality. Providing a stable climate fosters resilience against pests and diseases too.

You'll notice healthier foliage and stronger blooms when conditions are just right.

Water Changes

Water-grown plants thrive on fresh water, similar to how soil plants need rain. Changing the water weekly supports oxygen levels and keeps algae at bay.

Room temperature water prevents any shock that could harm your plant’s health. This routine helps maintain a healthy environment for growth and vitality.

Regular care ensures your green companions flourish beautifully in their watery homes.

Water Quality

Using water with low mineral content, such as filtered or rainwater, ensures your plants thrive. Tap water often holds chlorine that can negatively impact plant health.

Allowing tap water to rest overnight lets the harmful chemicals dissipate before watering.

Cultivating indoor plants in water brings satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.

Choosing appropriate varieties enhances air quality while infusing nature into your space. Exploring various plants and containers allows you to discover what works best for your unique indoor oasis.

How to Maintain Plants Grown in Water

How to Maintain Plants Grown in Water

Growing plants in water is simple and mess-free, but they still need regular care to stay healthy. Paying attention to a few key details keeps them thriving and looking great:

  • Keep the Water Clean: Dirty water can harm your plants. Changing the water every one to two weeks prevents buildup of algae or bacteria. Using room-temperature water avoids shocking the roots.
  • Watch the Light Levels: Most water-grown plants need bright, indirect light to grow well. Placing them near a window with filtered sunlight keeps them happy. Avoid direct sunlight, as it may heat the water and harm the roots.
  • Use the Right Containers: Clear containers let you watch the roots grow, but they also encourage algae. If algae become a problem, switching to opaque or darker containers can help. Ensure the container is deep enough to support the roots without crowding them.
  • Add Nutrients Carefully: Unlike soil-grown plants, water-grown ones rely entirely on the water for nutrients. Adding a small amount of liquid fertilizer every few weeks provides essential nutrients. Using a diluted solution prevents over-fertilizing.
  • Check the Roots Regularly: Healthy roots are firm and white or light-colored. Removing any slimy or discolored roots keeps the plant healthy. Trimming overly long roots helps them fit comfortably in the container.
  • Control Algae Growth: Algae can form in containers exposed to too much light. Cleaning the container and rinsing the roots during water changes reduces algae buildup.
  • Monitor for Pests or Diseases: Although less common in water-grown plants, pests or root rot can still occur. Checking plants during water changes helps you catch any issues early.

Common Challenges with Water-Grown Plants and How to Solve Them

Common Challenges with Water-Grown Plants and How to Solve Them

Water-grown plants are easy to care for, but occasional challenges can arise. Knowing what to look for and how to fix issues keeps your plants healthy and thriving:

  • Algae Buildup in Containers: Clear jars or vases often allow light to reach the water, encouraging algae growth. To solve this, clean the container thoroughly during water changes. Switching to an opaque or darker container helps reduce algae over time.
  • Root Rot: Sitting in stagnant water for too long can cause roots to rot. Signs include slimy, brown roots and a foul smell. Removing affected roots and changing the water regularly prevents this problem. Ensuring only the roots, not the stems, are submerged also helps.
  • Discolored or Drooping Leaves: Yellowing or drooping leaves often mean the plant isn’t getting enough nutrients. Adding a diluted liquid fertilizer every few weeks can provide essential nutrients. Checking light levels ensures the plant gets enough energy for growth.
  • Pests on Plants or in Water: Although less common in water-grown plants, pests like gnats or aphids may appear. Washing the plant and cleaning the container removes pests. For recurring problems, using natural pest deterrents like neem oil can be effective.
  • Stagnant Water Issues: Water left unchanged for too long can develop an unpleasant smell or attract pests. Changing the water every 1-2 weeks keeps it fresh and clean. Adding an oxygenating stone or air pump can help improve water quality.
  • Weak or Stunted Growth: Plants growing slowly or looking weak may need more light. Placing them near a bright, indirect light source can encourage growth. If the issue persists, checking for overcrowded roots or poor water quality can help.
Kathy Batiste

Kathy Batiste

Creative Contributor & Home Decor Specialist

Expertise

Interior Decorating, Space Planning, Color Theory, Functional Design, Interior Styling, Aesthetic Enhancements, Room Layout Optimization, Trend Integration, Sustainable Design Solutions, Seasonal Decor Styling

Education

International Association of Professions Career College (IAP Career College)

  • Certificate: Interior Decorator Certificate
  • Focus: Principles and practical techniques in interior decorating, including space planning, color theory, and client consultations.

Kathy Batiste is a creative contributor at Velocity Art and Design. She earned her Interior Decorator Certificate from the International Association of Professions Career College, where she gained skills in space planning, color coordination, and creating personalized home designs.

With over 5 years of experience in interior decorating, Kathy focuses on designing rooms that are not only stylish but also functional. Her passion lies in helping others transform their homes into spaces that feel warm and uniquely their own.

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