Garden

9 Plants You Can Grow in Water (No Soil Necessary)

Written by Emily Belkoff

Did you know you can grow plants without soil? 

I didn’t either! But now I have plants all over my house growing in just water. It’s super easy and fun. 

Let me tell you about 9 plants that love growing this way.

9 Plants You Can Grow in Water

1. Soft Stem Herbs

I love having fresh herbs on hand for cooking, and growing them in water is so simple!

  • Snip a cutting from green soft stems
  • Place in water
  • Ensure plenty of bright indirect light

My kitchen windowsill is now a mini herb garden, and it’s such a joy to snip fresh basil or mint whenever I need it.

2. Vegetable Scraps

Who knew kitchen waste could be so productive? I was amazed when I first tried this!

  • Lettuce
  • Green onions
  • Carrot tops
  • Keep the bottom part in water
  • Will see new growth

It’s like magic watching new leaves sprout from what I used to throw away. My kids love monitoring the progress too!

3. Lucky Bamboo

This plant truly lives up to its name – it’s been lucky for me in terms of easy care!

  • Commonly sold in a water-filled jar
  • Keep roots covered
  • Minimal fertilizer needed
  • Thrives in water

I have a few lucky bamboo plants scattered around the house, adding a zen touch to different rooms.

4. Pothos

Pothos quickly became my go-to plant for water propagation. It’s so rewarding!

  • Easy to grow houseplant
  • Loves water
  • Produces oxin, promoting root growth
  • Mix pothos cuttings with other stems for a growth boost

I’ve created beautiful arrangements by combining pothos with other cuttings in clear vases.

5. Philodendron

Both vining and upright varieties have found a place in my water-growing collection.

  • Take a cutting and place in water
  • Watch roots develop

These lush, leafy plants add such a tropical vibe to my living room.

6. Colorful Coleus

When I want to add a pop of color, coleus is my top choice.

  • Roots quickly in water
  • Take a cutting, remove bottom leaves
  • Place in water
  • Keep in a sunny spot for best results

The vibrant leaves brighten up any corner of my home.

7. Begonias

I was pleasantly surprised by how well begonias adapt to water growing.

  • All types do well in water, especially Rex and tuberous varieties
  • Take a healthy stem cutting
  • Be patient
  • Change water regularly

The delicate flowers and interesting foliage make for stunning water arrangements.

8. Chinese Evergreen

This hardy plant has become a staple in my water-growing experiments.

  • Can grow in water
  • Submerge a few inches underwater with leaves above the waterline
  • Easy maintenance

It’s perfect for those spots where I want some greenery but don’t have much time for care.

9. Baby Tears

This cute little plant adds a whimsical touch to my water gardens.

  • Trailing variety
  • Cut a piece, remove leaves in contact with water
  • Watch new roots emerge

I love how it cascades over the edges of glass containers, creating a soft, delicate look.

Hi! I'm Emily!

I'm a mom who's passionate about creating beautiful gardens without the hassle. Here, I share simple tips that actually work for busy people like us.

From picking the right plants to making them thrive, I'll help you create an outdoor space you'll love!

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