That's a good question. It's a fallacy that all plants need to grow in dirt or soil, but it certainly helps nurture the plant better. You can plant a bean seed by simply moistening a piece of a paper towel, and by watering them every day. The soil is what keeps the water there, and allows the plant to get its water to survive, so that it does not evaporate. It also provides minerals and nutrients that are healthy for the plant. Not all soils have all the nutrients the plant needs, so that's why people add fertilizers, to facilitate the growth of the plant. So, to answer your question, they do not need soil or dirt, but it certainly helps the plant get its nutrients. Check out the source and the video for more info on what plants need.
Source(s):
http://ezinearticles.com/?Do-Plants-Need-Soil-to-Grow?&id=1522737
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Does_a_plant_need_soil_to_grow

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