Houseplants have long been recognized for their many benefits, from improving indoor air quality to reducing stress levels. Many people, however, dread the idea of taking care of these plants due to the conventional wisdom surrounding their maintenance – that being watering, fertilizing, and sunlight requirements. However, with the right selection of plants, you can enjoy the benefits of houseplants without the maintenance fuss. Some plants can thrive in water only, making them an excellent choice for busy people or those without a green thumb. Here are some examples.
## Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are popular houseplants due to their attractive white flowers and hearty nature. These plants prefer to grow in rich, moist soil, but they can also thrive in water alone. To grow peace lilies in water, start by removing any soil from the roots and then place the plant into a vessel filled with water. The water should be changed once a week, and the plant should be kept out of direct sunlight to avoid algae growth.
## English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy is a low-maintenance houseplant that is particularly effective at purifying the air. It can easily adapt to water culture. For indoor water-gardening, select a glass container that allows plenty of room for the roots to grow. Add water and pebbles or marbles to help anchor the plant. English ivy will proliferate in moderate to bright indirect light, making it an ideal plant for different spots in your home or office.
## Philodendron
Philodendrons are known for their tropical appeal, shiny leaves, and rapid growth. This adaptive plant can thrive in pots, hanging baskets, and vases with water. To keep them in water, place the cutting in a broad-mouthed jar and fill it with filtered water. Keep the plant in indirect sunlight, replacing the water every two weeks or when it begins to discolor.
## Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreen is one of the most popular houseplants due to its low light and water requirements. It can thrive in jars of water as well as it can in a pot filled with soil. When transitioning to water, clean its root system of any remaining soil before immersing it. The water should be changed every week, and the plant should be placed in an area with moderate to low light conditions.
## Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants with their cascading leaves are eye-catching additions to any room. Popular for its air-purifying qualities, this plant also excels in water environments. To propagate spider plants in water, cut off the spiders or babies, preserving as much of the stem as possible. Insert the babies into a container filled with fresh water, ensuring their stems are immersed. They should start developing root systems in about a week with regular water changes.
## Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Despite its name, lucky bamboo is not bamboo but part of the Dracaena family. It’s a popular plant that’s often grown in water in decorative vases. Growth can be augmented by small amounts of liquid fertilizer. Lucky bamboo prefers indirect light and can grow in areas with low light. Regular changes of water and avoiding the accumulation of salts at the root base makes it an ideal low-light and low-maintenance indoor plant.
## Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also known as devil’s ivy, can rapidly adapt to a variety of environments, making it an excellent houseplant for beginners. This vine plant can grow extensively even in just water. Cuttings can be placed in a jar of water and will soon start developing roots. The variegated leaves can lose their color in low light, so place your pothos in a bright, indirectly lit location.
In conclusion, with only water and indirect light, these houseplants can thrive and add a touch of freshness and color to your environment. This low-maintenance approach to indoor gardening makes it accessible to even those who don’t consider themselves green-thumbed, and an interesting venture for experienced gardeners. Remember to regularly change the water and keep these plants away from direct sunlight to ensure their growth and longevity.
