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Arum lily can grow in water, making it a fascinating option for indoor water gardens and hydroponic setups.
Yes, you can successfully grow arum lily in water, but it requires specific care to thrive without soil.
Growing arum lily in water involves understanding its needs for nutrients, light, and root health in an aquatic environment.
In this post, we’ll explore how arum lily grows in water, the best ways to grow it successfully, common challenges, and tips to keep your water-grown arum lily healthy and beautiful.
Let’s dive into the world of arum lily growing in water.
Why Arum Lily Can Grow in Water
Arum lily can grow in water because it is a type of plant that easily adapts to hydroponic or semi-aquatic conditions.
1. Arum Lily’s Natural Habitat Supports Moisture
Arum lilies, or Zantedeschia, thrive naturally in wet, marshy areas and along riverbanks, so growing them in water replicates their natural environment.
This natural preference means they tolerate, and even prefer, consistently moist surroundings.
So, growing arum lily in water aligns well with their biological adaptations.
2. Root Structure Suited for Water Growth
Arum lily roots are thick tubers that absorb water and nutrients efficiently, making them suitable for hydroponic growth.
These tuberous roots can survive submerged conditions for long periods if oxygen is present in the water.
Hence, growing arum lily in water allows roots to take up everything they need directly without soil.
3. Can Absorb Nutrients from Water
When grown in water, arum lily can absorb essential nutrients dissolved in the water if supplemented properly.
Adding a diluted liquid fertilizer ensures the arum lily gets nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals normally sourced from soil.
This means growing arum lily in water requires mindful nutrient supplementation for ongoing health.
4. No Soil Means Less Risk of Some Pests and Diseases
Growing arum lily in water can reduce problems like soil-borne pests or fungal diseases.
This makes it an attractive option for indoor gardeners who want to keep their plants clean and pest-free.
It also simplifies care somewhat by reducing the need for soil management.
How to Grow Arum Lily in Water Successfully
Knowing that arum lily can grow in water is one thing, but knowing how to grow arum lily in water successfully requires some technique.
1. Choose Healthy Tubers or Plants
To grow arum lily in water, start with healthy tubers or a well-rooted plant.
If using tubers, soak them for 24 hours before placing them in water to help start root development.
Starting with vigorous material is key to success.
2. Select the Right Container for Water Growth
Use a container that offers enough space for your arum lily’s roots to spread and grow.
Clear glass vases or jars are great so you can observe root development, but opaque containers also work.
Make sure the container is stable and won’t tip over easily.
3. Use Clean, Room-Temperature Water
Fill the container with clean, room-temperature water.
Avoid chlorinated tap water if possible, or let it sit out overnight to allow chlorine to dissipate.
Clean water supports healthy root growth and prevents bacterial or fungal buildup.
4. Add Nutrients Regularly
Because arum lily can grow in water but lacks soil nutrients, add a diluted liquid fertilizer formulated for houseplants or hydroponics.
Feed the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Monitor the plant’s growth and adjust nutrient concentration as needed to avoid fertilizer burn.
5. Maintain Proper Water Level and Oxygenation
Keep the water level high enough to cover the roots and tubers but avoid submerging the base of the stem to prevent rot.
Changing the water every week prevents stagnation and adds fresh oxygen.
If possible, use an aquarium air pump or oxygen stones for better oxygen supply to roots.
6. Provide Adequate Light
Arum lily grown in water needs bright, indirect light for healthy foliage and blooming.
Avoid direct sunlight that can scorch leaves or heat the water too much.
A spot near a bright window or under grow lights works well.
Common Challenges When Growing Arum Lily in Water
While growing arum lily in water is possible, there are a few challenges that come with this method.
1. Risk of Root Rot
Constant exposure to water without sufficient oxygen can cause root rot.
If water is not changed regularly or is stagnant, harmful bacteria can build up and damage roots.
To prevent root rot when growing arum lily in water, maintain fresh water and consider adding oxygen stones or aeration.
2. Nutrient Deficiencies
Since there’s no soil, nutrient deficiencies can develop if fertilizer isn’t added consistently.
Arum lily needs balanced nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to thrive.
Growers should pay attention to leaf color and growth; yellowing or wilting leaves can signal a nutrient problem.
3. Algae Growth in Water
Standing water and light can encourage algae growth in containers.
Algae compete with arum lily’s roots for oxygen and nutrients, and can make the water look unsightly.
Change water regularly and keep containers clean to manage algae growth.
4. Limited Plant Size
Arum lilies grown solely in water may not grow as large or robust compared to soil-grown plants.
This is due to restricted space for tuber expansion and limited nutrient availability compared to rich soil.
If you want a larger plant, consider a semi-hydroponic or mixed approach with soil.
5. Less Frequent Flowering
Sometimes arum lilies grown in water flower less frequently than those grown in soil.
Flowering depends on energy reserves in the tubers, nutrient supply, and environmental conditions.
Optimizing light and nutrients can help encourage blooming despite water-only growth.
Tips to Keep Your Arum Lily Thriving in Water
If you want your arum lily to thrive when growing in water, here are some extra tips to keep in mind.
1. Rotate the Plant for Even Growth
Turn your arum lily every few days so all sides get light exposure.
This helps prevent one-sided growth and keeps the plant looking balanced and healthy.
2. Support the Plant as it Grows
Arum lilies can develop tall flower stalks and broad leaves that might need extra support.
Use stakes or supportive ties to prevent tipping or bending when grown in water.
3. Remove Yellowing Leaves
Trim any yellow or dead leaves regularly to keep the plant looking neat and to prevent decay in the water.
Dead leaves can decompose and negatively affect water quality.
4. Repot Occasionally
Even in water, arum lily tubers can outgrow their container.
Every few months, move your arum lily to a larger water container with fresh water and nutrients.
This gives the roots more room and keeps the plant vigorous.
5. Adjust Water Temperature Seasonally
Arum lilies prefer moderately warm water, ideally between 65°F and 75°F (18°C – 24°C).
Keep water too cold and growth can slow. If water gets hot, oxygen levels drop which can stress the plant.
Aim to keep the water temperature stable and suitable for growth.
So, Can Arum Lily Grow in Water?
Yes, arum lily can grow in water, given the right conditions and care.
Growing arum lily in water works because of its natural adaptation to wet environments and the ability to absorb nutrients directly from water.
To successfully grow arum lily in water, provide clean water, sufficient nutrients, good oxygenation, and adequate light.
While there are challenges like root rot and algae, these can be managed with regular water changes and proper care.
By following the tips and guidelines shared above, you can enjoy beautiful, thriving arum lilies grown in water indoors or in decorative water gardens.
So go ahead, give arum lily water growing a try and enjoy the unique beauty this elegant plant brings to your space.