Soil? Overrated. At Plantisima, we love challenging the rules of traditional gardening—especially when it leads to cleaner, more creative, and surprisingly low-maintenance plant setups. Believe it or not, there’s an entire world of plants that don’t need a single scoop of dirt to grow and thrive. It’s not just possible—it’s beautiful, modern, and a little bit magical.
In this article, we’re spotlighting 15 incredible plants you can grow without soil, using methods like hydroponics, LECA, water propagation, kokedama, and more. Whether you’re living in a small space, tired of messy repotting, or just want something fresh for your shelves, these soilless options are as functional as they are eye-catching. Some even purify the air more efficiently when grown in water—and they look amazing doing it.
To all our Plantisima readers ready to level up their green game—this is your invitation to explore a cleaner, more futuristic way of growing. From floating roots in glass jars to sculptural moss balls, soil-free gardening is more than a trend. It’s a lifestyle shift that’s surprisingly easy to start.
Spider Plant
Known for its resilience, the spider plant is a favorite among beginners. This adaptable plant thrives in water, making it a perfect candidate for a hydroponic setup. Its slender, arching leaves add a touch of elegance to any room.
With minimal care, it purifies the air, enhancing your living space. The spider plant’s ability to produce offshoots or ‘pups’ offers a rewarding propagation experience.
Try placing it in a glass container to admire the intricate root system. This plant’s durability and low maintenance make it a staple in any soilless garden.
Peace Lily
Adored for its striking appearance and air-purifying properties, the peace lily flourishes without soil. Its glossy leaves and white flowers create a serene ambiance.
In a soilless environment, the peace lily requires only indirect sunlight and regular water changes. This forgiving plant even signals when it needs water by drooping slightly.
Ideal for beginners, it’s an aesthetic delight that also boosts your indoor air quality. With its graceful look, the peace lily adds a touch of peace to any space.
Lucky Bamboo
A symbol of prosperity, lucky bamboo is both charming and elegant. This plant’s unique spiral growth is a visual delight.
Growing in water, it’s a perfect choice for those seeking low-maintenance greenery. Place it in indirect light and watch it thrive.
Its resilience and ability to grow in various shapes make it an intriguing addition to any home or office. Lucky bamboo’s cultural significance and ease of care make it a wonderful conversation piece.
Orchids
Orchids are renowned for their exotic beauty and captivating blooms. While traditionally grown in bark, many varieties thrive in water.
These stunning flowers require specific care, including maintaining humidity and providing indirect light. With patience, orchids reward growers with long-lasting blossoms.
Cultivating orchids in water allows for unique display options, adding elegance to any room. Their intricate blooms never fail to impress, making them a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are known for their lush, green foliage and adaptability. They’re perfect for soilless environments, thriving in water with little fuss.
Place them in indirect sunlight and watch as they flourish. These plants make excellent indoor companions, bringing vibrancy to your decor.
Low-maintenance and forgiving, philodendrons are ideal for busy individuals seeking greenery without the hassle. Their heart-shaped leaves add charm and a touch of nature to your home.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is celebrated for its healing properties and adaptability. This succulent can grow in water, making it a versatile addition to your collection.
Place it in bright, indirect sunlight to encourage growth. The gel inside its leaves has numerous uses, from skincare to soothing burns.
Growing aloe vera without soil reduces maintenance and allows you to appreciate its unique structure. This plant’s dual purpose and striking form make it a valuable asset to any home.
Pothos
Pothos are known for their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. Thriving in water, they’re perfect for hanging displays.
These hardy plants require minimal attention, making them ideal for those new to gardening. Simply change the water regularly and provide indirect sunlight.
The variegated patterns on the leaves add visual interest, enhancing any room. Pothos’ resilience and beauty make them a popular choice for effortless greenery.
Mint
Mint is a fragrant herb that thrives in water, making it a kitchen favorite. Perfect for adding freshness to dishes, it’s both practical and decorative.
Place it on a sunny windowsill and enjoy its rapid growth. The aroma of mint leaves can invigorate any space.
Easy to propagate, mint in water offers endless culinary possibilities. Its refreshing scent and usefulness make it an essential herb for any household.
Basil
Basil is a culinary staple that grows wonderfully in water. Its aromatic leaves enhance meals, while its presence brightens up any kitchen.
This herb requires plenty of sunlight and regular water changes. The ease of growing basil in water allows for a continuous supply for your favorite recipes.
Having fresh basil at your fingertips is a delightful convenience. Its vibrant leaves provide both visual and flavorful satisfaction, making it an indispensable addition to your cooking space.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a leafy green that adapts well to soilless cultivation. It’s a fantastic choice for fresh, homegrown salads.
Providing ample sunlight and regular water changes ensures its crispness. The ease of growing lettuce in water offers a quick harvest.
Enjoying fresh, pesticide-free lettuce straight from your windowsill is a rewarding experience. Its fast growth and utility make it a favorite for those seeking a healthy lifestyle.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb that can be cultivated in water, adding flavor to your dishes. Its woody aroma fills the kitchen with warmth.
For optimal growth, provide ample sunlight and change the water regularly. This herb’s resilience makes it a popular choice for culinary enthusiasts.
The convenience of having fresh rosemary on hand enhances your cooking experience. Its evergreen appeal and culinary versatility make it a staple in herb gardens.
Thyme
Thyme is a versatile herb that thrives in a soilless environment. Its subtle flavor complements a variety of dishes.
This plant requires bright sunlight and consistent water changes. Cultivating thyme in water allows for a continuous supply and an aromatic addition to your kitchen.
The simplicity of growing thyme makes it a favorite among cooks. Its culinary uses and fragrant appeal enhance both your garden and your meals.
Oregano
Oregano is a robust herb perfect for soilless growth. Its strong flavor elevates dishes, making it a kitchen essential.
Provide this herb with sunlight and fresh water to encourage healthy growth. Oregano’s adaptability and resilience make it easy to maintain.
Having fresh oregano available enriches culinary creations. Its rich aroma and flavor add depth to your cooking, making it a cherished addition to any herb collection.
Sage
Sage is a fragrant herb that flourishes in water. Its distinctive taste enhances savory dishes.
Ensure it receives ample sunlight and fresh water for optimal growth. Sage’s hardiness makes it a great choice for soilless gardening.
With fresh sage on hand, your culinary creations gain depth and aroma. Its robust flavor and easy maintenance make it a favorite among herb enthusiasts.