How to Grow Plants in Water: A Simple and Stylish Guide

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different ways to grow plants, but there’s something undeniably captivating about watching roots spread and leaves thrive in nothing but water. Growing plants in water—commonly known as hydroponics—requires minimal effort, is visually stunning, and is surprisingly satisfying. It’s also a great way to bring greenery into small spaces, like desks, kitchens, or even bookshelves.

One of the best parts about this method is the versatility it offers. With the right setup, even someone with no gardening experience can enjoy the beauty of thriving plants. I’ve recently been using a wooden frame glass vase for my water-grown plants, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite items for both practical and decorative purposes. But let me start from the basics.

Why grow plants in water?

Before diving into the how-to, let’s take a moment to appreciate why growing plants in water is so appealing. For me, it’s a combination of convenience, cleanliness, and sheer aesthetic value:

• Low maintenance: There’s no need to worry about soil mess, repotting, or overwatering. As long as the water is clean and regularly replaced, plants thrive with little effort.
• Visual appeal: Watching roots grow is a unique experience. It adds a sense of life and movement to indoor spaces.
• Space-saving: It’s perfect for small apartments, desks, or areas where soil-based plants may not fit.

Now that the "why" is covered, let’s get into the practical steps to grow plants in water.

Step 1: Choose the right plants

Not all plants are suited for growing in water, but many can thrive if given the right conditions. Over time, I’ve found that smaller plants with relatively simple root systems work best. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Pothos: Also called "Devil’s Ivy", this hardy plant is almost foolproof and looks gorgeous with its trailing vines.
• Spider plant babies: These little offshoots grow quickly in water and are great for beginners.
• Lucky bamboo: A popular choice for its elegant appearance and minimal care needs.
• Herbs: Basil, mint, and rosemary grow well in water and can double as a fresh kitchen supply.
• Philodendrons: Their glossy leaves make them a stylish addition to any room.

Once you’ve selected your plants, it’s time to prepare them.

Step 2: Prepare your plant cuttings

To grow a plant in water, you’ll need a healthy cutting. Here’s how I usually prepare mine:

1. Select a healthy stem: Look for a stem with at least 3-5 leaves and a few nodes (the small bumps along the stem where roots will grow).
2. Cut just below a node: Use clean, sharp scissors to cut the stem about 4-6 inches long. Nodes are essential because they’re where the roots will emerge.
3. Remove lower leaves: Strip away any leaves that will be submerged in water to prevent rotting.
4. Optional rooting hormone: While not necessary, dipping the cut end into rooting hormone can speed up the rooting process.

Once the cuttings are ready, it’s time to find the perfect container.

Step 3: Pick the right vase

This is where aesthetics and functionality come into play. I’ve tried various containers for my hydroponic plants, but my go-to is the wooden frame glass vase. Here’s why:

• Clear glass for root watching: The transparent design allows me to keep an eye on the roots as they grow, which is both practical and fascinating.
• Compact size: It’s perfect for small plants and fits beautifully on desks, shelves, or coffee tables.
• Stylish wooden frame: The combination of wood and glass creates a minimalist yet elegant look that complements any décor.
• Easy to refill: The glass vessel is easy to clean and refill, which is a must for healthy water-grown plants.

Place the cutting into the vase, ensuring the nodes are submerged but the leaves remain above the waterline.

Step 4: Use the right water

The quality of the water can make or break your hydroponic plant setup. Tap water works in most cases, but if your water supply is heavily chlorinated, it’s worth using filtered or distilled water. I always let tap water sit out for 24 hours before using it to allow any chlorine to evaporate.

Fill the vase about halfway and place the cutting inside. Make sure the nodes are submerged but avoid drowning the leaves.

Step 5: Find the perfect spot

Light is essential for plant growth, even for water-grown plants. However, not all plants have the same lighting needs. Most of my hydroponic plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as it can overheat the water and harm the roots.

For me, a sunny windowsill or a well-lit desk works perfectly. Experiment with the location to see where your plants are happiest.

Step 6: Maintain your plants

While water-grown plants are low-maintenance, they do require some attention to stay healthy:

1. Replace the water regularly: I change the water every 5-7 days to prevent stagnation and algae growth. Fresh water also ensures the plant gets enough oxygen.
2. Clean the vase: If the vase starts looking cloudy or slimy, give it a quick rinse with warm water. A clean container helps prevent bacteria buildup.
3. Trim the roots: Once the roots grow too long, trimming them can encourage better absorption of nutrients.
4. Add nutrients: While plants can survive on just water for a while, adding a drop of liquid fertilizer every month or two can promote healthier growth.

Why I love the wooden frame glass vase for hydroponic plants

I’ve tried many containers for growing plants in water, but nothing beats the charm and practicality of the wooden frame glass vase. It’s compact, making it ideal for desks or small corners, and its sleek design adds a modern touch to any space. Whenever someone visits my home, they always ask where I got it—and it’s become my go-to recommendation for anyone interested in trying hydroponics.

The vase is also versatile. I’ve used it for pothos, spider plant babies, and even a few herbs. Watching the roots expand in the clear glass is not only calming but also a great way to connect with the growth process.

Final thoughts

Growing plants in water is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to add greenery to your space. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting, hydroponics offers a low-maintenance, mess-free solution that anyone can enjoy. The key is choosing the right plants, providing clean water, and picking a container that’s both functional and stylish.

For me, the wooden frame glass vase has elevated my hydroponic plant experience, blending functionality with a touch of elegance. It’s the perfect addition to my desk, where it brings a little slice of nature into my everyday life.

So, why not give it a try? With a little care and the right setup, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to grow plants in water—and how beautiful the results can be!