Introduction

Many plants can be propagated through cuttings that are submerged in water until new roots have developed. This method is easy, cost-effective, and simple enough for even beginners to try. In this article, we'll explore the types of plants that can be rooted in water and the steps to do so.

Plants that can be rooted in water

Many common houseplants can be propagated in water, including pothos, spider plants, ivies, and philodendrons. Other plants that can be rooted in water are coleus, impatiens, geraniums, and some herbs like basil or mint.

However, not all plants can be rooted in water. Plants with continuously woody stems, like trees or shrubs, are generally unable to root in water properly. Plants that are too young or too old might not have the necessary hormones to root properly.

The steps to root plants in water

To root plants in water, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Choose the plant to propagate and identify a healthy, vigorous shoot or stem.

Step 2: Cut the shoot or stem using a clean and sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Make sure to remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem.

Step 3: Place the stem in a container of clean water, making sure that the cut end is submerged at least 1 inch below the surface of the water.

Step 4: Change the water every few days to prevent the growth of bacteria. Also, make sure to add a few drops of liquid fertilizer to the water to provide nutrients to the cutting.

Step 5: Wait for the roots to develop. This can take anywhere from a week to several months, depending on the plant's type and growing conditions.

Step 6: Once the roots have grown to a few inches long, the cutting can be planted in soil or a potting mix.

Tips for success

Here are a few tips to improve your success rate when rooting plants in water:

Choose healthy and vigorous stems from a healthy plant.

Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid injuring the stem.

Change the water regularly, and add liquid fertilizer to support root growth.

Keep the container in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.

Be patient, as some plants might take more time than others to root.

Conclusion

Rooting plants in water is an easy and cost-effective method to propagate numerous common houseplants and herbs. With a bit of patience and care, you can grow new plants from cuttings without spending money or buying any special equipment. Follow the tips outlined above to ensure success, and have fun watching the roots grow.