Spider Plant Care Guide

Spider plants, scientifically known as Chlorophytum comosum, are popular houseplants valued for their easy care, air-purifying qualities, and attractive arching foliage adorned with baby spider plantlets. Spider plants are forgiving and adaptable, making them perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. With proper care and attention to their needs, spider plants can thrive indoors, providing beauty and air-purifying benefits to your living space. Here’s a detailed care guide to help you keep your spider plant healthy and thriving.

Green & white variegated spider plant leaves
    • Spider plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.

    • Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. However, some morning sunlight is beneficial.

    • Spider plants prefer average room temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and appreciate good air circulation.

    • They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but avoid drafts and sudden temperature drops.

    • Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season (spring and summer). Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.

    • Reduce watering in the fall and winter, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

    • Spider plants are sensitive to fluoride and chemicals in tap water. Use distilled or filtered water if possible.

    • Normal indoor humidity levels are usually sufficient, but they appreciate a bit of extra humidity. Misting occasionally or placing the plant on a humidity tray can be beneficial.

    • Use a well-draining potting mix for spider plants, such as a mix formulated for houseplants or a combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

    • They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH around 6.0-7.0. Repot spider plants every 1-2 years or when they become root-bound.

    • Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, as spider plants prefer snug pots and can become stressed in overly large containers.

    • Trim off yellow or brown leaves as they appear, cutting them back to the base of the plant.

    • Remove any spent flowers or brown tips on leaves to encourage new growth.

    • Spider plants produce runners with baby plantlets (spiderettes) at their ends; these can be pruned and propagated to keep the plant tidy.

    • Feed spider plants every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength.

    • Reduce feeding in fall and winter to once a month or less.

    • Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to burnt roots or excessive foliage growth with fewer flowers.

    • Spider plants are easy to propagate by dividing the plant or using plantlets (spiderettes) produced on long arching stems.

    • Plantlets can be rooted in water or directly in soil. Once rooted, they can be potted individually.

    • Alternatively, you can leave the spiderettes attached to the mother plant to create a fuller appearance.

    • Brown tips: Often caused by dry air or fluoride in water. Increase humidity around the plant and use distilled or filtered water.

    • Yellow leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or underwatering.

    • Pests: Spider plants are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract spider mites or mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap if pests are present.

    • During the growing season (spring and summer), spider plants benefit from more frequent watering and occasional fertilization.

    • In fall and winter, reduce watering and fertilization to allow the plant to rest. Maintain consistent temperatures and protect from drafts, which can stress the plant.

    • Repot spider plants every 1-2 years or when they have outgrown their pots.

    • Choose a slightly larger pot with drainage holes and fresh potting mix. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the new pot, filling around it with soil. Water thoroughly after repotting and allow the plant to adjust to its new container.