Can we grow snake plant in water?

Snake plants are popular houseplants known for their air-purifying abilities and ease of maintenance. Traditionally, these plants are grown in soil, but some plant enthusiasts opt to cultivate snake plants in water. In this article, we'll explore whether snake plants can indeed grow in water and the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.

Growing snake plants in water: Yes or no?

The simple answer to this question is yes, you can grow snake plants in water. The plants are known to be able to survive in water for extended periods without affecting their growth significantly. This is because snake plants are succulents and can store water in their leaves, making them more tolerant of drought-like conditions.

That being said, growing snake plants solely in water requires a particular set of tools and careful maintenance, as compared to growing them in soil.

Advantages of growing snake plants in water

One of the advantages of growing snake plants in water is that it eliminates the need for soil, which can be messy and time-consuming to manage. Additionally, diseases and pests associated with soil growing are not an issue when cultivating snake plants in water.

Furthermore, growing snake plants in water can be visually appealing. The rooting structure of these plants is unique and can add a decorative touch to your living space. In aquariums, these plants can be used to provide shelter for small fish as they grow.

Disadvantages of growing snake plants in water

Even though growing snake plants in water has its advantages, it must be noted that it has some disadvantages as well. The most significant disadvantage of cultivating snake plants in water is that they become more susceptible to root rot. This is because their roots are delicate and can rot easily if submerged in water for too long.

Another issue to note is that the water in which these plants grow must be periodically changed to prevent the buildup of algae and other bacteria. This can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task that may not be suitable for everyone.

How to grow snake plants in water

If you've decided that growing snake plants in water is a good option for you, here are some tips on how to go about it:

Choose a container that is deep and narrow, preferably with a lid. This will prevent evaporation and keep the water level constant.

Fill the container with distilled water or tap water that has been left out overnight to dechlorinate.

Add a small amount of liquid fertilizer to the water to provide nutrients for the plants.

Cut a healthy leaf of your snake plant and let it root in the water. Roots generally grow in three to four weeks.

Change the water and fertilizer mixture every two weeks to avoid root rot and nutrient deficiency.

Keep the container in an area that receives bright, indirect light.

Conclusion

In conclusion, growing snake plants in water is possible, but it requires a particular set of tools and careful maintenance. While it eliminates the need for soil, it can leave the plant more susceptible to root rot and requires periodic water changes to avoid the buildup of bacteria.

If you wish to try growing snake plants in water, it's essential to follow the tips provided and the previous plant growth experience. Remember to closely monitor their growth and make necessary adjustments as needed to keep them healthy and thriving.