I still remember the first time I witnessed it—a humble pothos cutting suspended in a crystal-clear jar on my grandmother's windowsill, unfurling delicate white roots into the water below. Twenty years later, my own home has become a testament to that simple magic.
There's something almost rebellious about growing plants without soil. It honestly makes gardening so much fun for beginners, too!
I have found peace in these simple things—the clean lines of glass vessels revealing every stage of growth, the meditative ritual of changing water, the way morning light changes these arrangements into prisms.
You could be trying to propagate treasured plants or create floating gardens that blur the line between decor and living art. These ten water plants have helped me nurture my green thumb. Let’s get started!
Why I Fell in Love with Water Plants
Before I dive into my top 10 picks, let me tell you why I'm so passionate about plants that grow in water without soil.
For starters, they're incredibly low-maintenance. Water plants are perfect for busy folks or self-proclaimed plant killers like I once was! There's something magical about watching roots develop in clear water, and the best part? No soil means no mess. As someone living in a small apartment, that's a huge win for me!
Water plants also bring a unique aesthetic to your home. They're conversation starters and instantly add a fresh, modern touch to any space. Plus, many of them are natural air purifier plants, which is a blessing in our otherwise polluted spaces.
Now, let's get to the exciting part which is my carefully curated list of 10 water plants that will thrive in your Indian home!
My Top 10 Water Plants for Your Home
1. Money Plant
If there's one plant that's universally loved across Indian households, it's the Money Plant. And guess what? It's one of the easiest plants that can grow in water! I have multiple cuttings thriving in recycled glass bottles around my home.
The Money Plant (especially the vibrant green variety) is not just beautiful but also considered auspicious in our culture. Many believe it brings good fortune and prosperity – something we could all use a bit more of, right?
To grow your own, simply take a cutting with 2-3 leaves and a node, place it in a clear glass container, and watch it thrive. Change the water once a week, and within no time, you'll see roots developing.
2. Lucky Bamboo
Another plant that holds special significance in Indian homes is the Lucky Bamboo. This water-loving plant is believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and positive energy, perfect for that empty corner in your living room or work desk!
I received my first Lucky Bamboo as a housewarming gift, and it's been growing steadily for years with minimal care. All you need is a suitable container, clean water (changed weekly), and moderate light. Remember, it's a tropical plant, so it might not enjoy extremely air-conditioned rooms.
The best part? You can arrange multiple stalks in creative patterns or even train them into spiral shapes as they grow. It's like having a living art piece that evolves over time!
3. Spider Plant
The Spider Plant holds a special place in my heart because it was my first successful attempt at water propagation. With its arching leaves and small baby plantlets (that look like spiders hanging from a web), this plant adds movement and texture to any space.
To grow a Spider Plant in water, simply snip off one of the baby plants, place it in water, and watch it develop roots. Within weeks, you'll have a new plant ready to be displayed in a beautiful glass container. I love placing mine near a bright window where the morning sun creates magical patterns through the leaves and water.
Spider Plants are excellent air purifiers too – a little natural help against our urban pollution!
4. Golden Pothos
Often confused with the Money Plant, Pothos is another champion among plants that grow in water. Available in various varieties like Golden Pothos, Marble Queen, etc., these are one of my favourite water plants.
I have a Golden Pothos that started as a tiny cutting and now cascades down my bookshelf. To grow your own, simply cut a healthy stem with 3-4 leaves just below a node, place it in water, and wait for the magic to happen. The roots typically appear within a week or two.
What I love most about Pothos is how it communicates its needs – leaves drooping? It's thirsty. Yellowing? Time for some plant food.
5. Philodendron
The Heart-Leaf Philodendron is another stunning option for water propagation. With its glossy heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines, it is such a unique water plant! I have one growing in a vintage bottle on my dining table, and it's always a conversation starter during family gatherings.
To grow a Philodendron in water, take a cutting with a thick stem and 3-4 leaves, place it in clean water, and ensure the node is submerged. Change the water weekly to prevent bacterial growth. The plant adapts well to indoor conditions and doesn't demand much attention.
What makes Philodendron special is its ability to thrive in both water and soil, giving you flexibility as your plant parenting skills evolve!
6. English Ivy
English Ivy might not be the first plant that comes to mind for water propagation, but it's surprisingly adaptable! This climbing beauty can either cascade down from hanging planters or climb around a support structure, adding versatility to your indoor garden.
I propagated my first English Ivy cutting from a friend's plant, and it's now thriving in a clear glass vase in my study. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and regular water changes. What makes it special is its excellent air-purifying abilities.
The delicate, variegated leaves create beautiful shadows on the wall when placed near a window, adding much needed versatility to your home/office decor.
7. Snake Plant
Also known as "Mother-in-law's Tongue," the Snake Plant is virtually indestructible, making it perfect for beginners. While traditionally grown in soil, it can thrive surprisingly well in water too!
To propagate a Snake Plant in water, cut a leaf near the base, create a triangle-like shape at the bottom, and place it in water. Ensure only the bottom part is submerged to prevent rot. It might take longer than other plants to develop roots, but patience pays off!
I have a Snake Plant leaf cutting that's been growing in a tall cylindrical vase for months now. Its striking upright leaves add architectural interest to my home office and require minimal maintenance – perfect for those busy work weeks.
8. Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese Evergreen is a fantastic choice for those darker corners of your home where most plants struggle. With its beautiful variegated leaves and compact growth habit, it's a stylish addition to any space.
I propagated my Chinese Evergreen from a mature plant, placing a cutting with at least one leaf and a small portion of stem in water. Within weeks, roots began to appear, and now it's a stunning specimen in my bedroom. The plant prefers warmer temperatures, making it well-suited to most homes year-round.
What I love most about Chinese Evergreen is how it brightens up low-light areas with its patterned foliage, bringing life to otherwise dull spaces!
9. Arrowhead Plant or Syngonium
The Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium) gets its name from its distinctly shaped leaves that resemble arrowheads. As the plant matures, the leaves change shape, adding an element of surprise to your indoor garden.
This plant has been a favorite in Indian homes for generations, and for good reason! It's incredibly adaptable and grows beautifully in water. I have an Arrowhead cutting in a blue glass bottle on my kitchen windowsill, and its pink-tinged leaves add a perfect pop of color.
To grow your own, take a cutting with at least one leaf and a node, place it in water, and watch it develop roots within days. Regular water changes keep it happy, and it doesn't mind the occasional neglect – perfect for when I travel for work.
10. Coleus
If you're looking to add a splash of colour to your water garden, Coleus is your answer! With leaves in beautiful hues of green, pink, purple, and red, this plant is like a living painting.
I discovered Coleus water propagation accidentally when a stem broke off my garden plant. I placed it in water temporarily, and to my surprise, it not only survived but grew healthily! To grow your own, take a cutting just below a leaf node, remove any excess leaves, and place it in water. Some gardeners recommend dipping the node in honey before placing it in water to promote root growth.
Why Growing Plants in Water is Perfect for Indian Homes
Growing plants that grow in water without soil has numerous advantages, especially in the Indian context:
- Beat the Heat: During our scorching summers, soil-based plants need frequent watering. Water plants are already in their happy place!
- Monsoon-Friendly: No worries about waterlogged soil or root rot during heavy monsoon rains.
- Space-Saving: Perfect for compact urban apartments in cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, or Bangalore.
- No Pests: Say goodbye to soil-borne pests and fungal issues that are common in our humid climate.
- Visual Appeal: The transparency of glass containers allows you to showcase both the plant and its intricate root system, adding a unique decorative element.
Getting Started with Your Water Garden
Starting your own collection of plants that grow in water with names like the ones I've shared is incredibly easy. All you need is:
- Clean Containers: Glass bottles, jars, or vases work perfectly. I love repurposing old bottles for an eco-friendly touch!
- Fresh Water: Use filtered or drinking water- these work best in my experience!
- Healthy Cuttings: Either propagate from existing plants or purchase cuttings. Moreover, you can ask your fellow plant parents for cuttings too.
- Patience: Some plants root quickly, while others take time. Enjoy the journey!
- Liquid Fertilizer: After about a month, consider adding a drop of liquid fertilizer to provide nutrients.
Wrapping Up!!
So there you have it, my favourite 10 water plants that will complement your home without the mess of soil or the stress of complicated care routines. From the prosperity-promising Money Plant to the colorful Coleus, there's something for every space and preference.
I hope my journey inspires you to dip your toes (or rather, your plant cuttings!) into the world of water gardening.
And remember, with online nurseries like Urvann offering next-day delivery across major Indian cities, starting your water garden has never been easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I change the water for my water plants?
I change the water for my water plants once every 5-7 days. If you notice the water becoming cloudy or developing an odor, change it immediately. Using clean containers and filtered water helps extend the time between changes. During summer months, you might need to change the water more frequently due to faster evaporation and higher temperatures.
2. Do water plants need fertilizer?
Initially, water plants can survive without fertilizer as they use nutrients stored in the cutting. However, after about 4-6 weeks, I recommend adding a drop of liquid fertilizer once a month. Don't overdo it – too much fertilizer can harm the plants.
3. Can all plants grow in water permanently?
Not all plants can grow in water permanently. The 10 water plants I've mentioned are specially adapted to thrive in water for long periods. Some plants may root in water but eventually need soil for proper nutrients and support. In my experience, plants like Money Plant, Lucky Bamboo, and Pothos can live in water indefinitely with proper care.
4. How do I prevent algae growth in my water plant containers?
Algae is a common issue, especially in India's warm climate. I prevent it by keeping my water plant containers away from direct sunlight, changing the water regularly, washing the containers thoroughly during water changes, and using opaque or coloured glass containers that limit light penetration. If algae does develop, simply clean the container with a mild vinegar solution before returning your plant to fresh water.
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