My Favorite Dirt-Free Gardening Trick: Growing Plants in Water

You know those little discoveries in life that feel like a secret someone should’ve told you years ago? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I learned you could grow plants without any soil at all. No dirt under your nails. No messy spills on the counter. Just a glass jar, a bit of water, and a cutting from a plant.

And just like that, I was hooked.

If you’re like me—a little older, a little wiser, and a whole lot busier than you used to be—this method might just become your new favorite way to keep things green around the house.

Why I Switched to Water-Grown Plants (and Why You Might Love It Too)

Let’s be honest—traditional gardening has its charms, but it’s not always practical. Between the potting mix, the bugs, the constant upkeep… sometimes it’s more work than joy.

Here’s what I’ve come to love about water-grown plants:

• They’re clean. No soil, no spills, no surprise gnats buzzing around the kitchen.

• They’re simple. No repotting, no weeding, and no overwatering to stress over.

• They’re beautiful. Clear jars let you see the roots—like nature’s artwork.

• They’re smart. Less water waste, less mess, and less plastic use overall.

I’ve even made little gifts out of mine. A rooted pothos in a recycled jam jar makes the sweetest hostess present.

15 Lovely Plants That Grow in Just Water

These are the ones I’ve had the most success with (and yes, I’ve killed a few plants over the years—haven’t we all?). But these? They’re kind, forgiving, and flourish with just a little water and love.

1. Spider Plant

This one reminds me of the ’70s—macramé hangers and all. Snip off a baby “pup,” plop it in water, and watch those roots grow like crazy.

2. Snake Plant

Tough as nails and stylish too. Just a leaf cutting in water, and it’ll eventually root and thrive. Practically takes care of itself.

3. Pothos

An old friend. Heart-shaped leaves, fast growth, and hard to mess up. Mine drapes across my kitchen window like a little indoor jungle.

4. Lucky Bamboo

Not a real bamboo, but still charming. You’ll often see it in spas or as a good luck gift. Pebbles in a vase + water = easy elegance.

5. Philodendron

Another trailing beauty. Give it bright, indirect light and a clear vase, and you’ve got instant homey charm.

6. English Ivy

Looks like something out of an old English cottage. Grows beautifully in water, especially on a bookshelf or mantle.

7. Peace Lily

Classic and calm. They even bloom in water (with a little luck and light). I keep one in my bathroom for that hotel-lobby vibe.

8. Chinese Evergreen

Great for darker corners. Pretty, patterned leaves and very little fuss. Just keep the roots clean and happy.

9. Coleus

Bright and cheerful leaves in purples and greens. A real show-off, but not in an annoying way.

10. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia)

Such a fun one. Purple, silver, and green leaves that drape beautifully. Super easy to root in water.

11. Mint

Fresh and fragrant. Clip a sprig, pop it in a glass, and boom—tea time just got fancier.

12. Basil

Perfect for kitchen windows. Nothing beats snipping a few leaves right into your pasta or salad.

13. Begonia

Soft and romantic. You can root these from just a leaf in water. A little more delicate, but so worth it.

14. Sweet Potato Vine

Stick a sweet potato half in water and watch it grow wild. It’s fun for kids (and grownups too).

15. African Violet

A little finicky, but when it works, it’s pure magic. One leaf can root and become a whole new plant.

Want to Try It? Here’s How to Start

1. Snip a healthy piece of the plant—just below a node (that’s where roots grow).

2. Place it in a clean glass or jar with room-temp water.

3. Make sure no leaves are under the water (they’ll rot).

4. Set it somewhere with nice, bright, indirect light.

5. Change the water every week or so.

That’s it. No special equipment. No green thumb required.

A Few Things I’ve Learned Along the Way

• Use filtered water if you can. Some tap water has chlorine that plants don’t love.

• Skip the fancy jars. Mason jars, old teacups, even cleaned-out salsa jars all work beautifully.

• Add a drop of liquid fertilizer. Not every time, just every few weeks to give them a little boost.

Troubleshooting (Because Life Isn’t Perfect)

• Yellow leaves? Could be too much sun or stale water.

• Slimy roots? Trim them back and refresh the water.

• Algae? Try an opaque container or move it out of direct sun.

Don’t worry—it happens. Just like cooking, gardening is more forgiving than we think.

Final Thoughts (From Someone Who’s Been There)

These days, my windowsills are lined with little jars—some old, some new. Tiny roots twirling in the glass. Leaves stretching toward the light. It’s a small joy, but one that feels surprisingly grounding in this wild, busy world.

So if your days feel a bit full—or your heart needs a touch of green—I say give water gardening a try. Start with one plant. See what happens.

And hey, even if you forget to change the water for a week… they’ll probably forgive you.