Can Aglaonema Grow in Water? A Beginner’s Guide

Aglaonemas, also known as Chinese Evergreens, are graceful indoor plants known for their stunning patterned leaves But did you know these tropical beauties can also grow in water? While aglaonemas thrive in soil, propagating and growing them in water is an intriguing alternative

If you’re curious whether aglaonemas can grow in water, you’re in the right place. Below we’ll explore everything you need to know about cultivating these lush plants in a water medium.

The Short Answer

Yes, it is absolutely possible to grow aglaonemas in water The key is providing cuttings or offshoots with plenty of ambient moisture Aglaonemas can develop robust root systems when allowed to absorb water through their nodes and joints.

While water cultivation creates a unique appeal, it also poses some risks. Careful maintenance and monitoring are required to prevent issues like root rot. Overall, water growing offers a fun way to propagate aglaonemas, but transitioning to soil is recommended for their long-term health.

Selecting Your Aglaonema Variety

With over 30 diverse varieties, there’s an aglaonema for everyone! Consider the following popular options that thrive in water:

• Aglaonema Silver Queen – Striking gray-green leaves with silver markings.

• Aglaonema Maria – Bright green leaves flushed with yellow. Compact growth habit.

• Aglaonema Pink Dalmatian – Vibrant pink spots on lush foliage. Stunning in water.

• Aglaonema Cutlass – Sword-shaped leaves with interesting wavy edges. Fast grower.

• Aglaonema Red Emerald – Deep green leaves with red stems and undersides. Adds rich color.

Look for varieties offering vibrant foliage that will look stunning when submerged in water. The decorative leaves make the water growing experience even more enjoyable!

Step-By-Step Guide to Water Cultivation

Growing aglaonemas in water is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for propagation success:

Select Cuttings

Take 3-6 inch cuttings from a healthy mother plant. Choose stems with several leaf nodes that can form roots.

Trim and Clean

Trim each cutting right below a node. Remove lower leaves. Wash cuttings in clean water.

Submerge in Water

Place cuttings in a glass container filled with room temperature filtered or distilled water.

Provide Light

Sit container near a bright, sunny window but avoid direct hot sunlight.

Change Water

Replace water weekly. Use clean scissors to trim dead roots. Add diluted fertilizer to nourish.

Monitor Growth

In 4-6 weeks, white roots will emerge from nodes! Once dense roots form, transplant into soil.

Be patient, as it takes time for water-grown roots to adjust to soil. Go slow when transitioning to avoid shock. Maintain moist soil and gradually acclimate to lower humidity.

Water Growing Tips and Tricks

Follow these tips to ensure your aglaonemas thrive in water:

• Change water frequently to prevent bacterial growth. Roots need clean oxygenated water.

• Use filtered or distilled water only. Tap water may contain chemicals harmful to delicate new roots.

• Add liquid fertilizer once roots develop to provide nutrients missing from water.

• Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves accustomed to high humidity.

• Monitor for signs of decay like slimy stems, mushy leaves, or foul odors. Remove affected cuttings promptly.

• Keep ambient temperatures between 70-80°F for optimal growth. Cooler temperatures may delay progress.

The Benefits of Water Growing

Growing aglaonemas in water offers some unique advantages:

• Observe mesmerizing root growth in action. Watching the roots elongate in water is fascinating.

• Easy propagation method. Water provides an accessible rooting environment.

• Strong root development before going into soil. Roots benefit from unrestricted moisture absorption.

• Kids enjoy watching progress. Nurtures engagement and responsibility through caretaking.

Potential Risks and Challenges

While rewarding, water cultivation does come with some risks:

• Stagnant conditions can attract harmful bacteria and fungi leading to diseases.

• Waterlogged roots are prone to root rot without adequate oxygen circulation.

• Lack of drainage in water increases chances of oversaturation.

• Missing nutrients from the soil must be supplemented with fertilizer.

• Weakened, brittle growth more vulnerable to snapping.

• Leaves accustomed to high humidity may scorch easier when exposed to direct light.

With attentive care and monitoring, these risks can be successfully managed. But soil propagation is lower maintenance long-term.

Soil Propagation – A Suitable Alternative

If water growing seems too risky, go the traditional route by rooting directly in soil. Here’s an overview:

Steps:

1. Take 3-6 inch stem cuttings with several nodes.

2. Trim leaves from lower half of stems.

3. Plant cut end in moist, well-draining potting mix. Bury lower nodes 1-2 inches deep.

4. Cover pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.

5. Provide bright, indirect sunlight.

6. Keep soil moist but not soggy. Roots emerge in 4-6 weeks!

Benefits:

• Less maintenance than water method.

• Natural root development.

• Established plants adapt well when transplanted.

• Balanced nutrient absorption from soil.

• Lower disease risk in well-draining soil.

Either cultivation method can produce gorgeous, flowing aglaonemas for your home. Weigh the pros and cons and go with what works best for your gardening style and environment!

Final Thoughts

To summarize, aglaonemas can absolutely grow in water under the right conditions. While they thrive in soil, water propagation is an exciting alternative to try your hand at. Monitor carefully, change water frequently, and provide good light to prevent common issues. Transition successful water-grown plants to soil for long-lasting enjoyment of these striking indoor beauties.