Which Plants Propagate in Water

Propagating plants in water is a popular method for increasing your collection of houseplants or growing new plants for your garden. This method involves rooting cuttings in water instead of soil. While not all plants will successfully root and grow in water, there are several that are well-suited to this method.

Plants that Propagate in Water

Some of the most popular plants that propagate easily in water are pothos, spider plants, and philodendrons. Pothos plants, also known as devil's ivy, have long, trailing vines covered in heart-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors. Spider plants have long, thin leaves that arch out from the center of the plant and small white flowers that bloom on long, thin stems. Philodendrons have large, glossy leaves and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Other plants that are well-suited to water propagation include begonias, coleus, and wandering jew plants. Begonias have unique, colorful leaves and small, delicate flowers that come in a variety of colors. Coleus plants have a wide range of colorful, patterned leaves that make them popular for indoor or outdoor gardens. Wandering jew plants have long, trailing vines covered in small, oval-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors.

How to Propagate Plants in Water

The process of propagating plants in water is relatively simple. First, choose a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut it at a node, which is the area where a leaf attaches to the stem. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and have at least two leaves. Remove any leaves from the bottom few inches of the cutting and place it in a glass jar or other container filled with water. Be sure to change the water every few days to prevent mold or bacteria from forming.

After a few weeks, you should start to see roots growing from the bottom of the cutting. Once the roots are at least an inch long, you can transfer the cutting to a pot filled with soil or leave it in the water and add fertilizer every few weeks. Be sure to place the new plant in a bright, but indirect, location and water it regularly.

Tips for Successful Water Propagation

While water propagation is a fairly easy process, there are a few tips that can help ensure success. First, be sure to use a clean container and fresh water. Keep the container out of direct sunlight to prevent the water from overheating or evaporating too quickly. Finally, be patient! Some plants may take longer than others to root and grow, so don't give up on a cutting too soon.

Conclusion

Propagation in water can be a fun and rewarding way to grow your plant collection. While not all plants will successfully root and grow in water, many popular houseplants and garden plants are well-suited to this method. By following a few simple tips, you can successfully propagate plants in water and enjoy the satisfaction of watching them grow and thrive.