It’s a great feeling to turn something bound for the compost bin into a thriving little plant. Some of the most surprising houseplants begin as kitchen scraps, simple leftovers that still have life to give.
You might already have a few of them on your counter or tucked in your fridge. With a little water, sunlight, and care, those scraps can grow into green companions that brighten your space.
Along the way, you’ll save money and enjoy watching the transformation happen. Here are eight kitchen castoffs you can regrow and enjoy as beautiful, functional houseplants.
#1 Pineapple
Source: Apartmenttherapy
That leafy crown at the top of your pineapple has more potential than most people realize. Once you twist it off, let the base dry for a day or two to prevent rot, then set it in a shallow bowl of water.
Roots will begin to appear in a couple of weeks. When they do, transfer it into soil and place it near a sunny window. It may take time to mature, but its spiky shape and tropical vibe add bold personality to any room.
#2 Beetroot
Source: Parents
The top of a beet can regrow into a lush little bundle of edible leaves with vibrant pink stems. You can place the beet top cut-side down in a shallow dish with just enough water to touch the root base.
Set it near a window and change the water every few days. The greens grow quickly, giving you a splash of color and a fresh garnish in one. Over time, the plant makes a charming windowsill accent.
#3 Apricot
Source: Exportersindia
Inside each apricot pit is a hidden seed just waiting for the right conditions to sprout. After drying the pit, gently crack it open and plant the seed in moist soil.
A sunny windowsill with 6 to 8 hours of light helps it along. Water consistently but lightly to keep the soil damp, not soggy. It grows slowly at first, but watching the glossy green leaves unfurl is worth the wait.
#4 Lettuce
Source: Gardenerspath
Instead of tossing the base of a head of lettuce, you can let it grow a new round of greens. Place the root end in a small bowl with water covering the bottom and leave it in a bright spot.
Within days, new leaves will emerge from the center. If the roots grow well, you can transfer the base into soil for a longer life indoors. It’s a fun way to reuse leftovers and always have fresh greens nearby.
#5 Lemon
Source: Vogue
Those shiny little seeds left behind after juicing lemons can grow into beautiful potted trees. Soak the seeds for a day to help them germinate faster, then tuck them into moist potting mix.
Keep the soil evenly moist and place the pot in a warm, sunny area. Sprouts usually appear in two to three weeks. The glossy leaves and fresh citrus scent make it a cheerful addition to your indoor garden.
#6 Aloe Vera
Source: Michlers
If you’ve used an aloe vera leaf for skincare or a kitchen burn, you’ve already seen its value. You can slice a healthy leaf, let it dry to seal the cut, and plant it in cactus soil. Bright indirect light and infrequent watering help it thrive.
Over time, it may sprout pups, baby aloes, and you can repot and share. It’s soothing, useful, and perfect for beginners.
#7 Avocado
Source: Homesteadandchill
There’s something fascinating about turning a single seed into a striking green plant. You can suspend an avocado pit over a glass of water using toothpicks, with just the bottom half submerged.
Keep it warm and wait a few weeks for roots and a stem to appear. Once it grows a few inches tall, move it into soil and keep it near filtered light. It won’t fruit indoors, but it makes a lush, sculptural houseplant.
#8 Green Onions
Source: Tastyseasons
Green onions are incredibly quick to regrow, making them one of the most rewarding scraps to reuse. You can save the white root ends and place them in a glass with just enough water to cover the roots.
Set them by the window and watch the green shoots return within days. They grow rapidly and can be trimmed again and again. The bright green stems look cheerful in a kitchen jar and offer easy snips for cooking.
