Can You Put a Plant with Root in Water?

Have you ever wondered if you can grow a plant by placing a cutting with roots in water instead of soil? The answer is yes! This method is called water propagation, and it involves growing plants in water until they develop a strong root system that can be transplanted into soil. Here's how you can put a plant with root in water.

Step 1: Choose the Right Plant

Not all plants are suitable for water propagation. Some plants root more easily in water than others. The best plants to start with are those that grow well from cuttings, such as pothos, spider plants, and philodendrons. These plants have thick stems and can develop roots quickly in water.

Step 2: Prepare the Cutting

To start, you'll need to take a cutting from the plant. Cut four to six inches of stem with at least one or two leaves attached. Make sure the cutting is healthy, with no signs of damage, disease, or pests. Use a sharp, sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut. Remove any leaves that will be submerged in water and any flowers or buds.

Step 3: Place the Cutting in Water

Fill a clean jar or vase with room temperature water. Avoid using distilled water, which lacks essential minerals the plant needs to grow. Place the cutting in the water, making sure that the end with the roots is submerged. If the stem is too long or too thin to stand upright, use a support like a toothpick to keep it in place. Place the jar in an area with bright, indirect light, but away from direct sunlight and drafts.

Step 4: Change the Water

Change the water every two to three days to prevent bacteria and algae from growing. Rinse the jar and the cutting with fresh water before refilling it. You can also add a drop of liquid fertilizer to the water to provide the plant with nutrients. Monitor the water level and make sure the roots remain submerged. Within a few weeks, you should see new growth from the top of the cutting.

Step 5: Transplant into Soil

After four to six weeks, the roots should be strong enough to transplant the cutting into soil. Gently remove the cutting from the water and place it in a pot filled with fresh, well-draining soil. Water the plant thoroughly, and keep it in a bright, indirect light area for a few days to help it acclimate to its new environment. Over time, the plant will outgrow its container and may need to be repotted.

Water propagation is a simple, inexpensive, and rewarding way to propagate plants from cuttings. It's also a fun and educational activity for kids and beginner gardeners. If you want to expand your plant collection or give a new life to a favorite plant, try putting a plant with root in water and watch it grow!