Can I Grow My Money Plant In Water – Your Complete Guide To Thriving

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Have you ever admired those gorgeous, vibrant money plant vines cascading from a simple glass jar, their roots elegantly suspended in water? It’s a clean, minimalist look that brings a touch of green to any space, but it often leaves you wondering, “Is that really sustainable? Can I grow my money plant in water long-term, or is it just a temporary trick?”

I’m here to tell you that not only is it possible, but it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to enjoy this beloved houseplant. Forget the mess of soil, the worry of overwatering, and the pesky fungus gnats. Growing your money plant (Epipremnum aureum) in water is a fantastic method for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.

In this complete guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the simple steps to get started, the best practices for ongoing care, how to troubleshoot common issues, and the wonderful benefits of this soil-free approach. Get ready to unlock the secret to a thriving, water-grown money plant!

Why Grow a Money Plant in Water? The Surprising Benefits

Before we dive into the “how-to,” let’s talk about the “why.” You might be surprised by the advantages of ditching the pot and soil. This isn’t just a propagation method; it’s a legitimate, long-term way to grow your plant.

Here are some of the top benefits of can i grow my money plant in water:

  • No More Mess: Say goodbye to soil spills on your windowsill or carpet. Water-based growing is clean, simple, and perfect for tidy spaces.
  • Pest-Free Paradise: Many common houseplant pests, like fungus gnats and spider mites, live and breed in soil. By removing the soil, you eliminate their habitat almost entirely.
  • Watering is Foolproof: The biggest killer of houseplants is improper watering. With a clear vessel, you can see the water level and the health of the roots at all times. It’s impossible to overwater or underwater!
  • A Visual Delight: There is something truly magical about watching the intricate network of roots develop and grow. A clear vase turns your plant into a living piece of art.
  • Perfect for Propagation: It’s the easiest way to create new plants from your existing one to share with friends and family. It’s a gift that keeps on growing!
  • Eco-Friendly Gardening: This method is a wonderful example of sustainable can i grow my money plant in water. You can upcycle old jars and bottles, reduce the need for plastic pots, and avoid using non-renewable resources like peat moss often found in potting mixes.

Your Step-by-Step `can i grow my money plant in water` Guide

Ready to get started? Don’t worry—this process is incredibly simple. You don’t need any fancy equipment, just a healthy mother plant, a pair of scissors, and a container. This is the ultimate how to can i grow my money plant in water roadmap.

  1. Step 1: Choose the Perfect Cutting

    The success of your water-grown plant starts with a healthy cutting. Look for a vibrant, mature vine on your existing money plant. You’re not just looking for a leaf; you need a piece of the stem.

    Identify a section of the vine that has at least 2-3 leaves and, most importantly, a node. A node is the small brown bump on the stem where the leaf meets it. This is where the new roots will sprout from, so it’s absolutely essential!

    Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, snip the vine about half an inch below a node. Aim for a cutting that is about 4-6 inches long.

  2. Step 2: Select Your Vessel

    This is the fun part! You can use almost any waterproof container. Glass jars, old bottles, decorative vases, or even a simple drinking glass will work perfectly.

    A clear glass container is fantastic for beginners because you can easily monitor root growth and water clarity. However, if you find algae becoming an issue, an opaque or colored vase can help by blocking some of the light.

  3. Step 3: Prepare the Cutting and Water

    Once you have your cutting, gently remove the leaf closest to the cut end. You want to ensure that only the bare stem and the node are submerged in water, as submerged leaves will rot and foul the water.

    Next, fill your chosen vessel with water. Simple tap water is usually fine! Pro Tip: If your tap water is heavily treated, let it sit out on the counter for 24 hours. This allows chlorine to evaporate, which is healthier for the plant’s delicate new roots.

  4. Step 4: Place Your Cutting in Water and Find a Home

    Gently place your prepared cutting into the vessel, making sure the node is fully submerged but the remaining leaves are well above the waterline.

    Now, find the perfect spot for your new plant. Money plants thrive in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window or a spot a few feet away from a south or west-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

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The Ultimate `can i grow my money plant in water` Care Guide

Your cutting is now happily settled in its new home! The initial work is done, but a little ongoing attention will ensure it thrives for years to come. This can i grow my money plant in water care guide covers the three golden rules of water cultivation.

Finding the Sweet Spot: Light Requirements

Light is food for your plant. While money plants are famously tolerant of low light, they won’t actively grow without enough energy. For a lush, vibrant plant, bright, indirect light is key.

If you notice the leaves are pale or yellowing, it might be getting too much direct sun. If growth is slow and the vines are looking long and “stretchy” with lots of space between leaves, it probably needs a bit more light.

The Golden Rule: Changing the Water

This is the single most important task for keeping your water-grown money plant healthy. Stagnant water loses oxygen and can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Aim to change the water every 7-14 days. If you notice the water getting cloudy or murky before then, change it immediately. When you change the water, it’s a good idea to give the vase a quick rinse to remove any slippery buildup (biofilm). You can even gently rinse the roots under lukewarm tap water.

To Feed or Not to Feed? Fertilizing Your Water-Grown Plant

Unlike soil, water contains no nutrients. For your plant to truly thrive long-term, it will need a little boost. Don’t worry, this is easy!

Once your plant has a healthy root system, you can start feeding it. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, but—and this is crucial—dilute it to one-quarter strength. A little goes a long way in a water environment.

Add this diluted fertilizer to the water just once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Skip fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.

Troubleshooting: Common Problems with Growing Money Plant in Water

Even with the best care, you might run into a few hiccups. The good news is that most issues are easy to fix! Here are some common problems with can i grow my money plant in water and their simple solutions.

Problem: The Leaves are Turning Yellow

A yellow leaf can mean a few things. If it’s an older leaf near the base of the cutting, it’s likely just the natural life cycle of the plant. Simply pinch it off. If multiple leaves are turning yellow, check your light. It could be a sign of sunburn from too much direct light. Finally, if the plant has been in water for many months without food, it could be a nutrient deficiency. Try a dose of diluted fertilizer.

Problem: The Stem is Slimy or the Water is Murky

This is almost always a sign of bacterial or algal growth. It means the water needs to be changed more frequently. Immediately discard the old water, thoroughly wash the vase with soap and water, and gently rinse the plant’s stem and roots. Place it back in with fresh water. If only one stem is slimy, it may be rotting and should be removed.

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Problem: There’s No New Growth

Patience is key! It can take a few weeks for roots to appear. If it’s been over a month with no change, assess the conditions. Is the plant getting enough bright, indirect light? Is the room too cold? Money plants prefer stable, warm temperatures. Ensure your cutting had a healthy node to begin with.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Hydro-Gardening: Best Practices

One of the most beautiful aspects of this method is how sustainable it can be. Embracing an eco-friendly can i grow my money plant in water approach is simple and impactful.

  • Upcycle Containers: Before buying a new vase, look around your home. Old pasta sauce jars, wine bottles, or interesting glass containers can make beautiful and unique planters.
  • Harvest Rainwater: If you have the ability, collecting rainwater is a fantastic, nutrient-rich, and chemical-free option for your plants.
  • Share the Green: Once your plant is established, it will produce long vines perfect for taking more cuttings. Propagate new plants and give them as thoughtful, zero-waste gifts to friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Money Plants in Water

Can a money plant live in water forever?

Absolutely! A money plant can live its entire life in water, provided you follow the best practices. This means changing the water regularly to provide oxygen, giving it adequate indirect light, and offering a very diluted dose of liquid fertilizer every month or so during the growing season.

How long does it take for money plant cuttings to root in water?

Typically, you will start to see the first signs of small, white roots emerging from the node within 2 to 4 weeks. The speed of root growth depends on factors like light, temperature, and the health of the parent plant.

Should I use warm or cold water for my money plant?

It’s best to use room-temperature water. Extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold, can shock the plant’s delicate root system. Letting tap water sit out for a day not only helps dissipate chlorine but also ensures it reaches ambient temperature.

Can I transfer my water-grown money plant to soil later?

Yes, you can! However, the roots that develop in water (hydroponic roots) are different from roots that grow in soil. They are more delicate and less efficient at absorbing water from a dense medium. To transition, plant it in a pot with well-draining soil and keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) for the first few weeks to help the roots acclimate without drying out.

Your Journey into Water Gardening Awaits

So, the answer to “can I grow my money plant in water?” is a resounding YES! It’s an elegant, low-maintenance, and deeply satisfying way to bring more green into your life.

You now have the complete can i grow my money plant in water guide at your fingertips. From selecting the perfect cutting to providing long-term care, you’re ready to succeed. It’s a wonderful project that connects you with the simple magic of nature, right on your windowsill.

So go ahead—find a pretty jar, snip a cutting from a friend’s plant (with their permission, of course!), and start your water-gardening adventure today. Happy growing!

Rimon Chowdhury
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