Can Fortune Plant Grow in Water?

Fortune plant, also known as Dracaena braunii or lucky bamboo, has become a popular houseplant due to its easy care, attractive appearance, and alleged feng shui benefits. While it is often sold in small pots with soil or pebbles, many people wonder if fortune plant can grow in water instead, and if so, how to do it. Let's explore this topic in more detail.

The Answer

The short answer is yes, fortune plant can grow in water and has been doing so for centuries in its native habitats of tropical Africa and Southeast Asia. In fact, growing fortune plant in water is often easier and requires less maintenance than growing it in soil, as the latter can be prone to overwatering, root rot, and pests. Additionally, fortune plant can benefit from the added humidity and nutrients that water can provide.

How to Grow Fortune Plant in Water

To grow fortune plant in water, you will need the following materials:

A clear vase, jar, or container with a narrow neck to hold the plant upright

Distilled or filtered water to prevent chlorine and minerals from damaging the plant

Pebbles, rocks, or marbles to anchor the plant and provide stability

Scissors or pruning shears to trim the plant as needed

Here are the steps to follow:

Fill the vase or container with enough water to cover the roots of the plant, but not the leaves or stem.

Place the pebbles or rocks in the container, about 1-2 inches deep, and arrange them to create a stable base for the plant.

Insert the fortune plant into the pebbles, making sure that the roots are in contact with the water and the stem is straight and centered. You may need to trim the roots or the stem slightly to fit them into the container.

Place the container in a bright, indirect light location, away from direct sunlight or drafts. Change the water every one to two weeks, or whenever it becomes cloudy or smelly.

Watch the fortune plant grow and thrive in its water home! You can also add some liquid plant food or seaweed extract to the water every few months to provide extra nutrients for the plant.

Care Tips

Here are some tips to keep your fortune plant healthy and happy in its water garden:

Don't let the water level get too low or too high. As a rule of thumb, keep it at about an inch below the top of the pebbles.

Don't expose the plant to extreme temperatures, such as near a heating vent or an air conditioner.

Don't use tap water, as it may contain chlorine and minerals that can harm the plant. If you must use tap water, let it sit in a container overnight to let the chlorine evaporate.

If the plant develops yellow or brown leaves, it may be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or inadequate light. Trim the affected leaves with clean scissors or shears, and adjust the care regimen accordingly.

If the plant becomes too tall or too bushy, you can trim it back with sharp scissors or shears. Cut off the stem just above a node, or a small protrusion where new leaves may emerge. You can also propagate the cuttings by placing them in water or soil.

The Bottom Line

Growing fortune plant in water is an easy, rewarding, and eco-friendly way to enjoy this beautiful and auspicious plant. With a little care and attention, your fortune plant can thrive in its water garden for years to come. Give it a try and see for yourself!