Is Money Plant Can Grow In Water – The Ultimate Guide To Soilless

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Have you ever scrolled through your social media feed and paused on a stunning image of a vibrant, green Money Plant, its roots gracefully suspended in a clear glass vase? It’s a look that’s both minimalist and lush, and it often leaves you wondering, “Is that really possible? And could I do it, too?”

I’m here with some fantastic news: the answer is a resounding YES! The question of is money plant can grow in water is one of the most common I get, and I’m always thrilled to share that it’s not only possible but also one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to enjoy this beautiful plant.

In this complete guide, I’m going to walk you through everything, just like I would with a friend in my own greenhouse. We’ll cover how to get started, the best practices for care, and how to troubleshoot any little bumps along the way. Get ready to unlock the secret to a thriving, soil-free Money Plant that will bring life and beauty to any corner of your home.

Why Grow a Money Plant in Water? The Surprising Benefits

Before we dive into the “how-to,” let’s talk about the “why.” Growing a Money Plant (Epipremnum aureum) in water isn’t just a novelty; it comes with a whole host of advantages that make it a fantastic choice for both seasoned plant parents and complete beginners. Here are some of the incredible benefits of is money plant can grow in water.

  • Zero Soil, Zero Mess: Say goodbye to bags of potting mix, soil spills on your carpet, and dirt under your fingernails. Hydroponic (water-based) growing is clean, simple, and perfect for modern, minimalist spaces.
  • A Window to the Roots: One of the most magical parts is watching the root system develop. Using a clear container gives you a fascinating, real-time look at your plant’s growth, something you completely miss when it’s hidden in a pot.
  • Fewer Pest Problems: Many common houseplant pests, like fungus gnats, live and breed in soil. By eliminating the soil, you significantly reduce the chances of an infestation. It’s a huge win for a healthier plant and a happier you!
  • Incredibly Forgiving for Beginners: Overwatering is the number one killer of most houseplants. When your Money Plant is in water, that fear is completely gone! This method makes it one of the most foolproof plants you can grow.
  • Aesthetic & Versatile Decor: A Money Plant in a stylish glass jar, a vintage bottle, or a sleek vase can be a stunning decorative piece. It fits any decor style and can brighten up desks, shelves, windowsills, and bathrooms.

Your Step-by-Step Guide: How to Grow Money Plant in Water

Ready to get your hands (metaphorically) dirty? This simple is money plant can grow in water guide will have you set up for success in minutes. It’s a simple, rewarding process that anyone can master. Don’t worry—it’s perfect for beginners!

Step 1: Selecting the Perfect Cutting

The foundation of a healthy water-grown Money Plant is a healthy cutting. You can easily take one from an existing plant (yours or a friend’s!).

  1. Look for a Healthy Vine: Choose a mature, vibrant green stem. Avoid any that look yellow, wilted, or weak.
  2. Find the Node: This is the most crucial part! A node is a small, brownish bump on the stem where a leaf grows. This is where new roots will sprout. Your cutting must have at least one or two nodes.
  3. Make the Cut: Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, snip off a 4-6 inch section of the vine, ensuring it has at least 2-3 leaves and, most importantly, 2-3 nodes. Make the cut about an inch below a node.

Step 2: Choosing Your Vessel

This is where your creativity can shine! Almost any waterproof container will work. This is a great opportunity for some eco-friendly is money plant can grow in water practices.

  • Glass is Great: Clear glass jars, vases, and bottles are popular because they let you watch the roots grow. Old jam jars or pasta sauce jars work beautifully!
  • Consider Opaque Containers: While clear glass is pretty, it can also encourage algae to grow because it lets light in. An opaque ceramic vase or a colored bottle will block light and keep the water cleaner for longer. The choice is purely aesthetic!
  • Ensure a Good Fit: The opening of your vessel should be wide enough to hold the stem without squishing it, but narrow enough to offer some support so the leaves stay out of the water.
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Step 3: Preparing the Cutting and Water

Just a couple of quick preparations will set your cutting up for a long and happy life.

First, gently remove any leaves on the lower part of the stem that would otherwise be submerged in water. Leaves sitting in water will rot and contaminate it, which can harm your new plant. Aim to have a bare stem with at least one node ready to go into 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 in an open container for 24 hours. This allows chlorine to evaporate, which is healthier for the plant’s delicate new roots.

Step 4: Placement and Patience

Place your prepared cutting into the water, making sure that at least one or two nodes are fully submerged. The leaves should be well above the waterline, resting on the rim of the container.

Now, find the perfect spot. Money Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. A spot near a window but out of the harsh, direct sunbeams is ideal. A north or east-facing window is often perfect.

All that’s left to do is wait! You should start to see little white roots emerging from the nodes within 2-4 weeks. It’s a truly exciting moment!

The Ultimate Money Plant in Water Care Guide

Once your plant has started rooting, a little bit of maintenance will keep it thriving for years. This is money plant can grow in water care guide covers the essential best practices.

The Golden Rule: Changing the Water

This is the single most important task. Stagnant water loses oxygen and can become a breeding ground for bacteria that cause root rot.

Change the water completely every 7-14 days. When you do, it’s a good idea to gently rinse the roots under lukewarm running water and give the inside of the container a quick scrub to remove any film or algae buildup.

Let There Be Light (But Not Too Much!)

As we mentioned, bright, indirect light is the sweet spot. If you notice the leaves are looking pale or yellow, it might be getting too much direct sun. If the growth is slow and the vines look long and “leggy” with lots of space between leaves, it probably needs a bit more light.

To Feed or Not to Feed?

Water itself contains no nutrients, so for long-term health, your Money Plant will appreciate a little snack now and then. However, less is more!

Once a month during the spring and summer growing season, add a few drops of a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer to the water. Make sure to dilute it to about a quarter of the recommended strength to avoid burning the delicate roots.

Pruning for a Fuller Plant

If your vine starts getting too long, don’t be afraid to give it a trim! Pruning encourages the plant to become bushier and fuller. Plus, you can use the cuttings to propagate even more plants. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Is Money Plant Can Grow in Water? Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even the easiest plants can have an off day. Don’t panic! Here’s a look at some common problems with is money plant can grow in water and how to easily fix them.

Why are the Leaves Turning Yellow?

A yellow leaf can mean a few things. If it’s an older leaf near the base of the stem, it’s likely just the natural life cycle. However, if multiple leaves are turning yellow, it could be a sign of too much direct sunlight or, less commonly in water, a nutrient deficiency. Try moving it to a less sunny spot and ensure you’re feeding it lightly once a month.

Dealing with Slimy Stems or Root Rot

If the part of the stem in the water feels soft and mushy, or the roots look brown and slimy, you’re likely dealing with root rot. This is caused by bacteria and is almost always due to not changing the water often enough.

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The Fix: Take the plant out of the water. With clean scissors, trim off any soft, mushy parts of the stem or roots. Wash the vase thoroughly with soap and water, then refill with fresh water and place the healthy part of the cutting back in.

Algae Growth in the Container

Seeing a green film build up inside your clear vase? That’s algae. It’s not directly harmful to your plant, but it doesn’t look great. It’s caused by light hitting the nutrient-rich water. To manage it, simply clean the vase thoroughly each time you change the water. If it bothers you, switch to an opaque container.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices for Your Water-Grown Plant

One of the joys of gardening is connecting with nature, and embracing sustainable is money plant can grow in water practices makes it even more meaningful.

  • Upcycle Containers: Instead of buying new vases, look around your home! An empty wine bottle, a beautiful vinegar jar, or a classic Mason jar can make a perfect home for your plant.
  • Use Rainwater: If you have a rain barrel, use that water for your plant. It’s free of the chlorine and minerals found in tap water and is perfectly pH-balanced for plants.
  • Share the Greenery: The easiest way to get more plants is to propagate what you have. Share your cuttings with friends, family, and neighbors. It’s a wonderful, eco-friendly way to spread the joy of gardening.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Money Plant in Water

How long can a money plant live in just water?

Indefinitely! As long as you provide it with fresh water, adequate light, and occasional nutrients, a Money Plant can happily live its entire life in water. Many people have plants that have been thriving in vases for years.

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

Yes, you can, but it requires a gentle transition. The roots that develop in water (hydroponic roots) are different from soil roots. When you move it to soil, keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) for the first few weeks to help the roots adapt to their new environment.

What kind of water is best for a money plant?

Most tap water is fine, especially if you let it sit out for 24 hours. However, filtered water, distilled water, or rainwater are all excellent choices as they are free from chlorine and other chemicals that can sometimes affect sensitive plants.

Do I need to add anything to the water to help it grow?

For the initial rooting phase, plain water is all you need. For long-term growth and vibrant leaves, adding a very diluted liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season is one of the best is money plant can grow in water tips to follow.

Your Journey to Soilless Success Starts Now!

So, there you have it. The answer to “is money plant can grow in water” is a wholehearted yes, and now you have the complete roadmap to do it successfully.

It’s a wonderfully simple, clean, and beautiful way to bring the outdoors in. All it takes is a healthy cutting, a vessel you love, clean water, and a little bit of light. You get to watch the entire life process unfold before your eyes, from the first tiny root to a long, cascading vine.

So go ahead, find a jar, take a cutting, and give it a try. You’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is. You’ve got this! Happy growing!

Rimon Chowdhury
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