The answer to whether Monstera adansonii can grow in water is yes, but the method requires a shift in maintenance practices compared to soil cultivation. This popular houseplant, often called the Swiss Cheese Vine, can be successfully transitioned into a purely water-based system known as hydroculture. While the plant can survive indefinitely in water, it will not receive the necessary mineral nutrients for long-term, sustained growth from water alone. Successfully growing this plant without soil involves understanding the specific needs of its roots in an aqueous environment.
Temporary Propagation Versus Permanent Hydroculture
It is important to distinguish between using water for temporary rooting and committing to a permanent water-based existence. Water propagation is a common technique where a stem cutting is placed in water to encourage the development of new roots. These new roots, specialized for water absorption, are then generally intended to be transferred into a soil mixture once they reach a length of about one to two inches.
Permanent hydroculture, however, involves keeping a fully rooted plant in water for its entire lifespan, which requires a more structured approach. The difference is largely about nutrient delivery and oxygenation, as plain water is sufficient for initial root development but lacks the macro- and micronutrients found in soil. The roots must also adapt to absorb dissolved oxygen from the water, unlike soil roots that primarily absorb oxygen from air pockets in the substrate. This long-term commitment demands a regular schedule of nutrient application and water refreshment to maintain a healthy growing environment.
Preparing Your Plant for Long-Term Water Growth
The transition process from a soil-based environment to hydroculture is a physical undertaking that focuses on root cleansing to prevent decay. If you are moving a rooted plant from soil, gently remove the plant and meticulously wash all soil particles from the root system. Any residual organic matter from the soil can decompose in the water and lead to the development of anaerobic bacteria, which causes root rot.
Once the roots are clean, select a suitable container, ideally one that is opaque or dark to minimize light penetration. Light exposure on the water can encourage the rapid growth of algae, which competes with the plant for nutrients and can cloud the water. Fill the chosen vessel with water, preferably distilled, rainwater, or tap water that has been left uncovered for at least 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate. Submerge only the roots, ensuring that the main stem and any leaf nodes remain above the water line to prevent the stem tissue from rotting.
Maintaining a Healthy Water Culture Environment
Successful long-term growth in water hinges on providing a balanced supply of oxygen and nutrients. Unlike soil, which acts as a reservoir for minerals, water is inert and quickly becomes depleted of essential elements. Therefore, a specialized liquid hydroponic fertilizer must be used to deliver the necessary nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with other trace minerals. Standard houseplant fertilizers are often formulated for soil and may not be suitable for this water-only application. Always choose a formula specifically labeled for hydroponics and apply it at a diluted strength, often half or less of the package directions.
Oxygen availability is another major factor, as stagnant water contains less dissolved oxygen than constantly aerated soil. To prevent the roots from suffocating, a complete water change should be performed every one to two weeks. This flushes out waste products and replenishes oxygen. Between full changes, you only need to top off the water level to compensate for evaporation, especially since the root system releases beneficial growth hormones into the water that can be retained.
Monitoring the roots is also necessary to maintain plant health. Algae growth can be controlled by using opaque containers, or by regular cleaning during water changes. Healthy water roots are typically white or pale, while a slimy or brown appearance indicates the onset of root rot due to oxygen deprivation or bacterial buildup. Immediate pruning of any decaying roots and a complete water change can often reverse this process, ensuring the Monstera adansonii thrives in its soilless environment.