Who says you need soil to grow beautiful houseplants? If you’re out of soil or simply looking for a creative way to display your greenery, there are plenty of plants that can thrive without it. From water-based setups to air plants that need no medium at all, these soil-free options are perfect for adding a touch of nature to your home. In this guide, I’ll share 12 houseplants you can grow without soil, along with tips to keep them healthy and happy. Let’s get started!
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is one of the easiest plants to grow in water.
- How to Grow: Place cuttings in a jar of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged.
- Care Tips: Change the water every 1–2 weeks and keep it in bright, indirect light.
2. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Lucky bamboo is often grown in water and is believed to bring good fortune.
- How to Grow: Place the stalks in a vase with water and pebbles for support.
- Care Tips: Use filtered water and keep it in low to medium light.
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants can thrive in water, making them a great choice for soil-free growing.
- How to Grow: Place spider plant babies (pups) in a jar of water.
- Care Tips: Change the water weekly and provide bright, indirect light.
4. Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
Philodendrons are versatile and can grow well in water.
- How to Grow: Take stem cuttings and place them in a container of water.
- Care Tips: Keep the water clean and provide indirect light.
5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy can be grown in water for a lush, trailing look.
- How to Grow: Place cuttings in a jar of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged.
- Care Tips: Change the water every 1–2 weeks and keep it in bright, indirect light.
6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreens can adapt to growing in water.
- How to Grow: Take stem cuttings and place them in a container of water.
- Care Tips: Use filtered water and provide low to medium light.
7. Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
Coleus is a colorful plant that can grow in water.
- How to Grow: Place cuttings in a jar of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged.
- Care Tips: Change the water weekly and keep it in bright, indirect light.
8. Begonia (Begonia spp.)
Begonias can be grown in water for a unique display.
- How to Grow: Take stem or leaf cuttings and place them in a container of water.
- Care Tips: Change the water every 1–2 weeks and provide bright, indirect light.
9. Air Plants (Tillandsia spp.)
Air plants don’t need soil or water submersion—they absorb moisture through their leaves.
- How to Grow: Place them in a bright spot and mist or soak them weekly.
- Care Tips: Provide good air circulation and avoid direct sunlight.
10. Paperwhites (Narcissus papyraceus)
Paperwhites are often grown in water for their fragrant blooms.
- How to Grow: Place bulbs in a shallow dish with water and pebbles for support.
- Care Tips: Keep the water level just below the base of the bulbs and provide bright light.
11. Mint (Mentha spp.)
Mint can be grown in water for fresh herbs year-round.
- How to Grow: Place cuttings in a jar of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged.
- Care Tips: Change the water weekly and provide bright, indirect light.
12. Orchids (Orchidaceae)
Some orchids, like phalaenopsis, can be grown in water culture.
- How to Grow: Place the roots in a container with water, allowing them to dry slightly between waterings.
- Care Tips: Use filtered water and provide bright, indirect light.
Tips for Growing Plants Without Soil
- Use Clean Water: Always use filtered or distilled water to avoid chemicals that can harm your plants.
- Change Water Regularly: Refresh the water every 1–2 weeks to prevent algae growth and keep the roots healthy.
- Provide Adequate Light: Most soil-free plants still need bright, indirect light to thrive.
- Add Nutrients: For long-term growth, add a diluted liquid fertilizer to the water every 4–6 weeks.
Final Thoughts
Growing plants without soil is not only possible but also a fun and creative way to enjoy greenery in your home. Whether you choose water-based plants like pothos and lucky bamboo or air plants that need no medium at all, these soil-free options are perfect for adding life and beauty to any space. So go ahead—experiment with these 12 plants and discover a whole new way to garden! Happy growing!
