Can Prayer Plant Grow in Water?

Prayer plant, also known as Maranta leuconeura, is a popular houseplant known for its unique foliage and stunning color patterns. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil and grows well in humid and warm conditions. If you are wondering if prayer plants can grow in water, the answer is yes, but there are some important things to keep in mind.

How to Propagate Prayer Plant in Water?

Prayer plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or division. To propagate prayer plant in water, first, select a healthy stem that has several leaves on it. Make a clean cut just below a node (a joint where leaves grow out of the stem). Remove any leaves that are close to the bottom of the stem, leaving only a few at the top. Then, place the cuttings in a jar of water, making sure that the node is fully submerged. Change the water every few days and maintain the temperature between 65°F and 75°F. In a few weeks, the cutting should start to develop roots. Once the roots are about an inch long, transfer the plant to a pot filled with soil.

Can Prayer Plant Live in Water Permanently?

While prayer plant can be propagated in water, it cannot be grown permanently in water. Prayer plant needs soil to grow and thrive. Soil provides the necessary nutrients, oxygen, and support for the plant. Growing prayer plant in water for an extended period can lead to root rot and eventually kill the plant. Therefore, it is important to transfer the plant to soil once it has developed roots in water.

Care Tips for Prayer Plant in Soil

If you have successfully transferred your prayer plant from water to soil, here are some care tips to ensure its healthy growth:

Light: Prayer plant prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light can cause the leaves to lose their vibrant colors.

Water: Prayer plant likes moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely or sit in water.

Humidity: Prayer plant thrives in humid conditions. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves with water or placing a humidifier near the plant.

Temperature: Prayer plant prefers consistent temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 60°F or above 85°F.

Fertilizer: Prayer plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer every four weeks.

Conclusion

In summary, prayer plants can be propagated in water, but they should not be grown permanently in water. Transferring them to soil is crucial for their healthy growth and survival. With proper care, prayer plant can thrive in your home and add natural beauty to your space.