11 plants that grow in water
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So, you want to grow plants but have no idea where to start? Or maybe you’re that busy bee who can barely keep up with watering soil, let alone managing a whole garden. Guess what? You don’t need soil. Yup, you heard me. There's a whole world of plants out there that will happily live, grow, and even flourish in water. It’s a beginner gardener’s dream, and trust me, you’re in for a treat.
Why Water-Grown Plants Are the Perfect Choice
Imagine reclaiming your kitchen windowsill, creating that Pinterest-worthy “jungle vibes” aesthetic, without following overly complicated plant care rules. That’s what water-grown plants offer. No messy soil, fewer pesky pests, and a front-row seat to watch roots do their thing through crystal-clear jars or vases. Oh, and they’re an ideal way to start your gardening journey—zero previous experience required.
Whether you’re decorating your chic home office, adding natural charm to the bathroom, or wowing guests with the centerpiece on your dining table, I’ve got the ultimate list of 11 plants that practically beg to grow in your favorite mason jar. Let’s get growing!
11 Amazing Plants That Will Thrill Your Inner Gardener
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
The Vibes: Bold, trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves, often sporting green-and-yellow patterns that look hand-painted by nature herself. Place a cutting in water, and it’ll root faster than you can decide whether to display it in the bathroom or the lounge.
Why It’s a Winner: It’s nearly impossible to mess this one up. A glass of tap water and filtered sunlight? Done. Forget about it for weeks? It’ll still love you.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Vibes: Graceful white blooms that elevate just about any room they grace. These lovelies can live happily in water for years, with just the roots submerged.
Quick Tip: Change the water every couple of weeks to keep this plant strutting its stuff.
Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
The Vibes: A symbol of luck and prosperity! Its upright stalks and effortlessly artistic look make it perfect for desks, entryways, or anywhere lacking greenery.
How to Keep It Happy: Pop it in a vase with some pebbles to hold it upright, add water, and boom—it’s the low-maintenance buddy you’ve been looking for.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Vibes: Arching leaves with subtle stripes make this cheerful plant stand out. Clip the “babies” (called pups) and let them sprout roots in water—it’s like watching baby ducks learn to swim.
Philodendron Heartleaf (Philodendron hederaceum)
The Vibes: Delicate, heart-shaped leaves on cascading vines. Bonus—it’s beginner-proof and every bit as forgiving as your best friend during that embarrassing karaoke night.
Why You’ll Love It: Put a sprig in water, and you’re golden. It’s even adaptable to lower light areas.
Mint (Mentha spp.)
The Vibes: A kitchen-friendly hero. Fresh mint leaves perk up teas, salads, or even your famous mojito recipe. Oh, and it smells good too.
Care Hack: Trim and pop the stem into water. It’ll root dramatically quickly and keep giving. Your culinary confidence will love it almost as much as you do.
Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas)
The Vibes: A vibrant, leafy showstopper with shades ranging from bright green to deep purple, the sweet potato vine is like a lush, living piece of art.
Why It’s a Winner: All you need is a sweet potato and a jar of water. Place the potato so the bottom half is submerged, and within a week or two, you’ll see roots and gorgeous vines beginning to sprout.
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
The Vibes: If you’re craving color, coleus delivers in spades with its stunning, multicolored leaves—think neon pinks, purples, and electric greens.
Pro Tip: Take a healthy cutting and plop it into water. Keep the jar in a well-lit spot, and it’ll thrive.
Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina)
The Vibes: This eye-catching plant sports silvery-purple striped leaves that shimmer in the light. Perfect for hanging or trailing down a shelf.
Why You’ll Love It: A small stem cutting will root in water quickly. It grows fast, so you’ll have jungle vibes in no time.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
The Vibes: A fresh basil plant growing in your kitchen? It’s like having an Italian nonna nodding her approval every time you make pasta.
How to Keep It Thriving: Snip a cutting with a couple of leaves, place it in water, and watch roots form in about a week.
Begonia (Begonia spp.)
The Vibes: Colorful, patterned leaves that can steal the spotlight in any room. Choose varieties with bold reds, greens, or speckled designs for impact.
Care Made Simple: Snip a healthy leaf or stem, stick it in water, and watch roots appear like magic.
Final Tips for Water-Grown Plant Success
- Use Clean Water: Tap water works fine, but if it’s heavily chlorinated, let it sit out for 24 hours before using it.
- Change Water Regularly: Swap out old water for fresh every 1–2 weeks.
- Choose Clear Containers: Watching roots grow is half the fun.
- Keep It Bright but Indirect: Most water-grown plants love bright, indirect light.
The Takeaway
Water-grown plants are a beginner gardener’s dream. No soil, no mess, and barely any effort required. Whether you’re spicing up your home decor or dipping your toes into plant care for the first time, these 11 plants will keep things easy, beautiful, and—best of all—fun.
Start with a mason jar, a healthy cutting, and a little water. Before you know it, you’ll be surrounded by a thriving, Pinterest-worthy indoor jungle.
Happy planting! 🌱
Candeece
