Without soil, land plants as we know them could not grow,
What about hydroponics? Hydroponics is the technique of growing plants using a water-based nutrient solution rather than soil, and can include an aggregate substrate, or growing media, such as vermiculite, coconut coir, or perlite. Hydroponic production systems are used by small farmers, hobbyists, and commercial enterprises.
https://www.nal.usda.gov/farms-and-agricultural-production-systems/hydroponics
