Indoor Plants Without Soil: The Ultimate Guide to Hydro Vases

Are you looking for a clean, modern way to bring greenery into your home? Say hello to Hydro Vases – also known as Living Vases! 

At The Grow Centre, we specialise in this beautiful, soil-free alternative to traditional potted plants. Hydro vases offers plant parents to grow lush foliage directly in water without the mess of soil. They offer a minimalist aesthetic that highlights the natural beauty of the plant from leaves to roots.  

How do you feed your plants in water? 

Most traditional indoor plants from nurseries rely on slow-release fertiliser pellets in the soil to feed indoor plants. These pellets break down over time when exposed to heat and water, allowing the roots to absorb nutrients. 

 
In a soil-free environment, you become the provider of these essential nutrients. Using a liquid of soluble fertiliser is the most effective way to keep your living vases thriving throughout all seasons,  

Fertiliser schedule for hydro vases: 

Growing Season (Spring and Summer): feed your hydro vases every 2-4 weeks, providing the boost your plants need to produce new lush leaves. 

Dormancy (Autumn and Winter): slow down your fertiliser routine as most indoor plants rest during the colder months and won't need extra nutrients until Spring.  

Note: Always make sure to check the label on your fertiliser, as different products may have specific usage recommendations. 

The best liquid fertiliser for hydro plants: 

To ensure your hydro vases reach their full potential, The Grow Centre recommends two premium Australian liquid fertilisers:  

1. The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food: A balanced NPK formula with trace elements and seaweed, this odourless formula is suitable for all houseplants and can make up to 100L of fertiliser.  

2. We the Wild Grow Concentrate Organic Liquid Plant Food: Highly active organic liquid plant food formulated for past absorption which can be used on all indoor plants for fast growth, new shoots and large leaves. 

Why choose a soil-free living vase? 

• Turn your root system into a work of art with a clear glass vessel and allow to monitor root health  

• Low maintenance – remove the guess work of when to water - top up the water level when its low and fertiliser with liquid feed every few weeks. Make sure to keep the water level 1cm below the top of the roots to avoid any rotting.  

• Great for small spaces such as windowsills, desks and shelving units 

What plants can I grow in water? 

Not all plants love having wet feet, so it's important to select plants that thrive in water such as:  

• Peace Lily: known for its white flush of blooms 

• Aglaonema: wide variety of colours from light greens to pinks 

• Dieffenbachia: bold, patterned foliage for a statement piece 

• Parlor Palm: adds a tropical lush feel  

• Syngonium: fast growing with a range of colours and patterns  

• Devils Ivy: ultra-fast growing indoor plant, perfect for beginner plant parents  

• Homalomena: wide heart-shaped leaf  

• Peperomia: range of textures, colours and leaf sizes  

• Boston Fern: soft, intricate fronds for a gentle approach