Water Beads for Plants
You’ve probably seen these Magic Water Beads in flower vases at wedding receptions. But did you know…they’re also a fun and easy way to grow many house plants?
Plants don’t actually need potting mix to grow. They merely require water, air and a source of nutrients for their roots. These water gel beads provide the air and water – all while giving the 
plant a creative new look.
These beads are an inert medium, made of water-absorbing polymer gel. Dried Magic Water Beadsare tiny, and then swell up as they absorb water. An ideal replacement for potting mix, this “Magic Water Beads ” helps to maintain moisture for house plants, by releasing water to the plant as needed.
Why grow house plants without soil? Here are a few advantages:
  • If you – or anyone in your family     – has allergies, you’ll eliminate fungus (mold) irritations by going     soilless. And you can say goodbye to those pesky fungus gnats that like to     hide in soggy potting mixes.
  • You’ll water less often because     the beads release water slowly as plants need it. Hydroculture also takes     away the risk of over- or under-watering your plants.

  • Root rot is not a threat because     the water-soaked beads allow a little air between them. Also, any standing     water is easy to pour off.
  • Nutrients are supplied through the     water with water-soluble fertilizer. That means your plants can grow more     foliage rather than putting energy into growing roots.
How to Use Water Beads
Put the dried Magic Water Beads into a large bowl and cover them with water. Add more water as needed, allowing them to absorb as much water as possible. This will take several hours. The beads will swell up before they’re ready to use. Drain off any excess water.
Pot your plant like you would in soil, placing the water-soaked beads on the bottom of the container, positioning the plant roots over it, and then surrounding the roots with more beads.
Do not put water beads under a grow light or in direct sunlight because heat will damage them. It’s a good idea to choose plants that prefer indirect light.