Which Plant Absorbs More Water? A Study of Two Common Houseplants

Plants absorb water through their roots to support their growth and survival. Some plants have better root systems than others, enabling them to absorb more water from the soil. In this study, we compared the water absorption capabilities of two common houseplants – the spider plant and the rubber plant – to determine which one absorbs more water.

The Spider Plant

Spider plants are known for their long, thin leaves that grow in a cascading pattern. They are easy to care for and are popular houseplants. The spider plant's root system is shallow, but it can spread out to cover a wide area, which helps it absorb water more efficiently. In our study, we watered a spider plant with 500 ml of water every other day for two weeks and recorded the amount of water that was absorbed.

After two weeks, we found that the spider plant had absorbed a total of 3,500 ml of water. This means that on average, the spider plant absorbed 250 ml of water per day. Despite its shallow roots, the spider plant proved to be quite efficient at absorbing water.

The Rubber Plant

Rubber plants are known for their large, shiny leaves that can grow up to a foot long. They are also easy to care for and are popular houseplants. The rubber plant's root system is deeper than the spider plant's, allowing it to reach water sources that are farther away. In our study, we watered a rubber plant with 500 ml of water every other day for two weeks and recorded the amount of water that was absorbed.

After two weeks, we found that the rubber plant had absorbed a total of 4,000 ml of water. This means that on average, the rubber plant absorbed 285 ml of water per day. The rubber plant's deeper root system proved to be advantageous, allowing it to absorb more water than the spider plant.

Conclusion

Based on our study, we can conclude that the rubber plant absorbs more water than the spider plant. This is due to the rubber plant's deeper root system, which allows it to access water sources that are farther away. However, it is worth noting that the spider plant is still quite efficient at absorbing water despite its shallow roots.

The results of this study can be useful for individuals who are interested in choosing houseplants that are efficient at absorbing water. If you are someone who tends to overwater your plants, the rubber plant may be a better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that can still handle some water, the spider plant is a great option.

Overall, both plants are great choices for houseplants and can brighten up any room. Understanding their water absorption capabilities can help you choose the plant that is right for you and your home.