9 Plants That Thrive in an Indoor Hydroponic Garden
In the world of houseplants and veggie gardens, a new trend is emerging—hydroponic gardens. The concept is fairly simple: growing plants in nutrient-rich water, forgoing the need for soil. This method of plant growth allows you to enjoy the plants’ foliage and fascinating root systems. The best part is that plants grown in water are extremely easy to take care of and keep alive!
1. Lucky Bamboo
The Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena Sanderiana) plant is said to bring good luck to its grower and prefers bright, indirect light. The stalks can be trained to grow into spirals or woven shapes, but ensure that they are secured in the vase as they can become top-heavy as more leaves grow. You can use pebbles or glass decorative stones to secure the stem. This plant can easily become a statement piece for the odd, well-lit windowsill.
2. Pothos Plants
Pothos plants (Epipremnum Aureum) are fast-growing, trailing plants that do well in hydroponic systems because they often require frequent watering when in soil. Their pointed, heart-shaped leaves are a solid green or variegated, with hints of creamy white, yellow, or pale green, requiring bright, shaded light. To ensure they grow as expected (up to a foot a month), change the water once a week and fertilize monthly.
3. Philodendren Plants
Philodendrons (Philodendron spp.) are a household favorite because they are easy to take care of and visually appealing as they cascade down a bookshelf. They come in a variety of colors, including solid-colored and variegated leaves. Philodendrons thrive in all types of lighting conditions, but brighter, direct lighting will allow for the best leaf growth. Remember to fertilize once a month and change the water frequently (once a week should be fine).
4. Coleus Plants
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) is an easy-to-grow plant. Cuttings of the plant are often cultivated before spring by placing them in water. The plant species come in a wide range of colors, allowing you to create a beautiful centerpiece for your home. Just remember to add a bit of compost tea during monthly water changes.
5. Monstera Plant
Another household favorite due to its giant, holey leaves, Monsteras thrive in water. They prefer bright, indirect light for several hours a day. Although mature plants can thrive in direct sunlight, keep cutting growing in water out of sunlight to avoid burnt leaves. To ensure continuous growth, fertilize the plant once or twice a month with hydroponic fertilizer.
6. Peace Lily
As a classic houseplant growing very well in water, peace lilies (Spathiphyllum spp.) need bright, indirect light and extra nutrients (a hydroponic fertilizer) to bloom year-round. Narrow vases are recommended to hold the stems in place and to make the plant appear bushy. Remember that only the roots can be placed in water; if the base of the plant or its leaves are in the water, it will rot.
7. Arrowhead Plant
The arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum) is a popular hydroponic plant that can grow for years in an aquarium, even without much light. As the plant grows, the leaves change in shape, and it comes in a variety of colors, including dark green, white/lime green, and bright pink. Weekly water changes, bright, indirect light, and consistent temperatures (60 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit) will ensure your arrowhead thrives.
8. Spider Plant
The long, variegated-leafed spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is another household favorite. Their small tuft-like growths allow for easy propagation, especially in water. When kept in a bright, indirect light, cuttings will grow quickly, especially when placed on top of some rocks or glass decorative stones for the roots to grab onto. Ensure leaves are never submerged, change the water once a week, and fertilize once a month.
9. Chinese Evergreen
This tropical plant is known for its floppy, patterned leaves. With many varieties to choose from—all of which thrive in water—Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema commutatum) are easy to care for and can be a stunning addition to any room. They can grow in almost all light conditions; darker rooms mean slower growth. Water should be changed once a week or when it becomes too murky. Don’t forget to fertilize with a water-soluble liquid fertilizer.
Sources
Hydroponics – Indoor Plants Doing Great in Water Only
33 Plants That Can Grow in Water Indoors
