Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is a classic, easy-to-grow houseplant with arching, variegated leaves and small plantlets that dangle from long stems. This air-purifying green plant is perfect for beginners and makes an excellent hanging basket specimen.
Spider Plant Care Guide
Environment
Spider Plants adapt to a wide range of indoor environments. They work well in hanging baskets, on shelves, or as tabletop plants in most rooms of your home.
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Can tolerate brief periods outside this range but protect from extreme temperatures.
Watering
Keep soil moderately moist during growing season, allowing the top inch to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. Spider plants are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water.
Humidity
Adapts to normal household humidity but appreciates occasional misting in dry environments.
Fertilizing
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing which can cause brown leaf tips.
Care Tips
- Remove brown tips from leaves if they develop (often caused by fluoride in tap water).
- Repot when the plant becomes rootbound, typically every 1-2 years.
- Easily propagate by planting the small "spiderettes" that form on long stems.
- Trim off brown or yellow leaves at the base to maintain appearance.
Common Problems
- Brown leaf tips often indicate dry air, fluoride in water, or over-fertilizing.
- Pale leaves may signal too much direct sunlight.
- Root rot can occur from overwatering or poor drainage.
- Spider mites may appear if the air is too dry - increase humidity if you notice webbing.
Seasonal Care
Spring
Growth accelerates - a good time for repotting and propagation.
Summer
May produce more "babies" (plantlets) during this active growing season.
Fall
Growth begins to slow - reduce fertilizing.
Winter
Minimal growth - reduce watering and stop fertilizing.