Ferns are some of the oldest and most fascinating plants on Earth, admired for their delicate fronds and ability to thrive in shady, humid environments.
Traditionally, ferns are grown in soil, where their roots spread through damp, organic matter. But did you know that ferns can also grow in water?
Water propagation is not only possible but also a creative way to display these plants in a home or office. With the right care, you can enjoy thriving ferns in glass jars, vases, or bowls filled with water, creating a lush and modern indoor garden.
Growing ferns in water requires a bit of knowledge about their natural needs, such as humidity, light, and root support.
Unlike some other houseplants, ferns are sensitive and need attentive care to stay healthy.
I walk you through everything you need to know about growing ferns in water, from choosing the right type to long-term maintenance.
Why Grow Ferns in Water?
Ferns are often seen in soil, but water culture has its own set of benefits. For one, growing ferns in water eliminates the mess of soil and makes it easier to see the plant’s root system.
Clear vases with ferns can look like living art, bringing greenery and elegance into any room.
Water-growing also reduces the risk of soil-borne pests such as fungus gnats, which are common in indoor plant care.
Additionally, maintaining consistent moisture is easier in water culture than in soil, where overwatering or underwatering can be an issue. Ferns naturally love moisture, so water-growing mimics part of their natural habitat.
However, it’s important to note that not all ferns will thrive in water. Choosing the right variety and providing proper care are the keys to success.
Best Types of Ferns to Grow in Water
Some ferns adapt more easily to water culture than others. Here are a few varieties that work especially well:
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
The Boston fern is one of the most popular indoor ferns, known for its feathery, arching fronds. It thrives in humidity and adapts well to water when its roots are properly cleaned and submerged.
Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)
Maidenhair ferns are delicate and stunning, with lacy fronds that look beautiful in a glass container. While they are more sensitive than other ferns, with proper care and attention, they can be grown successfully in water.
Asparagus Fern (Asparagus setaceus)
Despite its name, the asparagus fern is not a true fern, but it behaves like one in care. Its airy, fine foliage adapts well to growing in water, especially when kept in a bright, indirect light setting.
Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)
These unique ferns, with their antler-shaped fronds, can sometimes be adapted to water culture if only their roots are submerged. They make for dramatic and artistic displays.
Button Fern (Pellaea rotundifolia)
With its small, rounded leaflets, the button fern is a charming choice for water-growing. It is relatively hardy compared to more delicate species and adds a compact, neat touch to small containers.
How to Prepare Ferns for Water Growing
Switching a fern from soil to water isn’t as simple as placing the plant into a vase. It requires some preparation:
- Choose a Healthy Plant – Pick a fern that looks vibrant, with firm green fronds and no signs of yellowing or disease. Weak plants will struggle to adapt.
- Remove the Fern from Soil – Gently take the fern out of its pot. Handle the roots carefully to avoid breakage.
- Clean the Roots Thoroughly – Rinse the roots under lukewarm running water to remove all soil. Any soil left behind can cause rot and cloud the water.
- Trim Damaged Roots – Use sterilized scissors to snip off any brown, mushy, or damaged roots before placing the plant in water.
- Select a Container – Choose a glass jar, vase, or bowl deep enough to hold the roots but not so large that the plant looks lost. Transparent containers let you monitor root health.
Setting Up the Water Environment
Once your fern is prepared, you’ll need to create a suitable water environment for it.
Water Quality
Always use clean, chlorine-free water. Tap water can be used if left to sit overnight to allow chemicals to evaporate. Rainwater or filtered water is even better, as ferns are sensitive to chemicals.
Water Level
Submerge only the roots, not the crown or fronds, in water. If the crown sits in water, it may rot. The goal is to keep roots hydrated while allowing the foliage to stay dry.
Adding Support
Some ferns need support to stay upright in water. Pebbles, stones, or marbles at the bottom of the container can help stabilize the roots and hold the plant in place.
Oxygen Flow
Roots in water can sometimes suffocate if oxygen levels are too low. To prevent this, change the water at least once a week and ensure the container isn’t overcrowded.
Light and Temperature Needs
Ferns in water need the same kind of light as ferns in soil—bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the fronds and heat the water, leading to root damage.
Ideal temperature ranges are between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Keep your ferns away from heating vents, drafts, or air conditioners, as sudden changes can stress the plant.
How to Maintain Ferns in Water
Maintaining ferns in water requires consistent attention to cleanliness and nourishment.
Water Changes
Replace the water every 5–7 days. This keeps it fresh, prevents stagnation, and reduces the risk of bacterial or fungal growth.
Root Health
Inspect roots regularly. Healthy fern roots should look white or light tan. If they appear slimy, dark, or mushy, trim off the affected parts immediately.
Nutrients
Unlike soil, water doesn’t naturally provide nutrients. Every 4–6 weeks, add a diluted liquid fertilizer (about one-quarter strength) to the water to keep your fern nourished. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as ferns are sensitive to salts and chemicals.
Cleaning the Container
Clean the container thoroughly with mild soap and rinse well before refilling with fresh water. This prevents algae growth and keeps the setup attractive.
Common Problems and Solutions
Growing ferns in water can come with challenges. Here are a few common issues and how to solve them:
- Yellowing Leaves – This often indicates too much direct sunlight or lack of nutrients. Move the plant to a shadier spot and provide diluted fertilizer.
- Root Rot – Caused by stagnant water or submerged crowns. Trim damaged roots and change water more frequently.
- Fronds Drying Out – If humidity is too low, fern fronds can become crispy. Mist the plant regularly to maintain moisture around the foliage.
- Algae Growth – Green algae in the container means it’s getting too much light. Move to a dimmer location and clean the container thoroughly.
Styling Ideas for Ferns in Water
One of the joys of growing ferns in water is the creativity it allows in presentation. Here are some display ideas:
- Glass Vases – Show off the roots and fronds in tall glass vases for a modern, minimalist look.
- Mason Jars – A rustic and budget-friendly option that works well in cozy spaces.
- Hanging Glass Globes – Create floating greenery with small ferns suspended in hanging terrariums.
- Pebble Arrangements – Add decorative stones, shells, or marbles to the bottom of the container for visual appeal.
- Group Displays – Combine several water-grown ferns in different containers for a lush indoor garden corner.
Long-Term Care Tips
While many ferns can survive long-term in water, some may do better if eventually transitioned back to soil.
If you notice your fern declining despite proper care, consider potting it back into a soil mix. For ferns that thrive in water, long-term care involves maintaining a balance of light, nutrients, and fresh water.
Be mindful of the plant’s growth.
As ferns grow larger, they may outgrow their container and need trimming or repotting into a larger vase. Keeping a fern trimmed and refreshed ensures it stays healthy and continues to enhance your indoor space.
Growing ferns in water is both a beautiful and practical way to enjoy these ancient plants. With the right preparation, proper water care, and a little creativity, you can transform a simple fern into a stunning display piece.
The process also allows you to engage more deeply with your plants, as you’ll be closely monitoring their roots, water quality, and overall health.
Ferns bring freshness, tranquility, and a sense of nature indoors.
By growing them in water, you not only provide them with the constant moisture they love but also create a unique and artistic statement in your home. Whether displayed in a sleek vase or a rustic jar, water-grown ferns can turn any space into a green oasis.