The problem of the soil contamination The problem of soil degradation has been a recurring theme and is a cause for concern in many regions of the world. Due to various factors, the soil slowly degrades, affecting its capacity to support crops. Plots that were once perfect for agriculture can be irremediably converted into infertile land, unusable for food production. However, one solution to deal with this situation is the cultivation of vegetables in water, which is not only more sustainable in some cases, but also allows for the saving of resources such as land and water.
In this article, we explore 8 vegetables that you can grow over and over again at home, with the added benefit of not being as dependent on the quality of the soil or the environment in which you grow them. You'll discover how spring onions, garlic, bok choy, carrots, basil, celery, romaine lettuce, and cilantro can all be grown using only containers filled with water. Having fresh ingredients always on hand has never been easier!
Chives
Chives are perfect for growing in water. Simply leave the stem cut to a few centimeters. 1 or 2 centimeters above the root and placing them in a glass of water, you can see how they sprout quickly. Make sure that the roots are always covered with fresh water and change the liquid every 2 or 3 days to prevent the plants from rotting or developing unwanted bacteria.
This is an ideal method to make the most of your chives and always have a fresh source of this vegetable on hand for your dishes, especially salads and stews. In just a few days, you will notice new growth, making this option very practical for those who cook regularly.
Garlic
Garlic can also regrow when grown in water. It is common for garlic cloves to start sprouting after they have been stored for a while. If you see the green tips emerging, you can use them for growing. Place the garlic cloves with sprouts in a small dish with a little water and soon you will see how those shoots continue to grow.
Garlic sprouts are an excellent alternative for those looking for a milder flavour than traditional garlic. They can be used in salads or as a garnish to give a fresh and light touch to your preparations.
Chinese cabbage
Chinese cabbage is a vegetable that can regrow efficiently in water. To do this, leave the cabbage root in a shallow container and add a small amount of water to the bottom. In about 1-2 weeks, you will see new shoots growing.When the growth is considerable, you can transplant it to a pot with soil to obtain a new head of cabbage, although it is also possible to continue growing it in water indefinitely.
This method is one of the most interesting for those looking to get more of this vegetable without having to replant it in the ground, since it takes up very little space and grows quite quickly.
Carrots
Although carrots don't fully regrow in water, carrot tops are perfect for this. Place the top of a carrot (the one we usually throw away) in a dish with some water and place it near a bright window.
In just a few days, you will start to see the leaves growing vigorously. These leaves are completely edible and their slightly sweet taste is perfect for use in salads, as a garnish or even in soups.
Basil
Basil is one of the nicest vegetables to always have on hand, especially since its strong aroma and versatility in the kitchen make it an essential ingredient. To make it grow back as many times as you want, you should place several basil leaves about 3 or 4 cm long in a glass of water, making sure they get enough sunlight.
In about a week you will see roots starting to form. When the roots are at least 2 cm long, you can transplant them into a pot with soil. Or, if you prefer, you can keep them in water as long as the conditions are favourable.
Celery
Celery is another vegetable that you can regenerate at home. You just have to cut the base of the celery and place it in a container with warm water. Try to place the container in an area with good sun exposure. After a few days, sprouts will begin to appear in the center of the celeryWhen these shoots are large enough, you can transplant the celery into soil, although it is also possible to continue growing it in water if you prefer.
It is an excellent option if you consume celery regularly and enjoy having fresh plants in your kitchen.
Romaine lettuce or endive
If you've ever left the base of lettuce in water, you'll have noticed how quickly new roots and shoots start to grow. To get a fresh head of romaine or endive, place the shoots in a container with half an inch of water. Make sure to keep the water level constant.
After a few days, you will see how both the roots and the new stems will begin to develop. Once they have grown enough, you can transfer them to a pot with soil so that they continue to develop optimally.
Cilantro
Like basil, cilantro is an aromatic herb that is used in a variety of dishes. Cilantro stems are used in They grow easily in water when placed in a glass filled with water. In a short time, roots will begin to develop.
Once the roots are long enough, transplant the stems into a pot and place it in a well-lit corner of your home. This practice ensures that you will always have fresh cilantro on hand to prepare your sauces, stews and salads.
As you can see, growing your own vegetables in water is not only a sustainable solution, but also an economical and ecological way to enjoy fresh produce whenever you need it. Plus, since it doesn't depend on soil, it can be done in practically any space and the plants can grow continuously.