Hydroponic Houseplants
Hydroponics have been used for a long time in urban farming. It’s a great space saver for growing herbs and vegetables if you don’t have a garden. However, hydroponics is now the new trend for growing houseplants too.
Unlike herbs and vegetables which require a grow kit, houseplants can be grown in just a glass container with some natural light and fresh water.
What are the benefits to growing hydroponic houseplants?
Growing hydroponic houseplants is not only dirt-free, it’s pet-friendly, low maintenance, and looks good too. It also eliminates the risk of over-or-under-watering and, without soil, plants are less likely to suffer disease or pest problems.
How does it work?
To survive, plants need nutrients and support to keep themselves upright, these needs are usually met by the soil, by using the hydroponic method nutrient rich water and a container that supports the plant is all that’s required. 
Tip: use a glass or ceramic container rather than metal which may corrode when fertiliser is added to the water.
Getting started
Getting started is easy, just choose a plant that will root in water and take a cutting on a node just below the leaf.
Next, place the cutting in a container of water. Choose a vase or bottle that will allow the plant to stand upright so no leaves are sitting in the water. Use bottled spring water, well water, or rain water as they don’t contain the salt and chemicals used in filtration which can kill your plants. If tap water is the only option then leave it to sit for 24 hours to let the chlorine evaporate.
Read more about water quality here.
Then, wait for your plant to start rooting and make sure you keep the container full of water. Every few weeks add a few drops of fertiliser. Once roots start to form, simply leave the plant in the water to grow.
Which plants will grow with this method?
Here’s a list of plant’s that will grow using this system:
- Chinese Evergreen
- Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena)
- Coleus
- Geranium
- English Ivy
- Peace Lily
- Money Tree
- Spider Plant
- Philodendron
Herbs to grow in a hydroponic garden:
- Mint
- Basil
- Oregano
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Lavender
There are a variety of vases specific to growing hydroponic houseplants available online.
Got a question? Get in touch with the tean today.
