PLANTING SPIDER PLANTS

 

Where to grow:

Indoors or outdoors, spider plants prefer a location with bright, indirect light. Although spider plant can tolerate low-light conditions, it needs adequate light in order to bloom and produce offshoots. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Can be grown outdoors year-round in warmer climates (Zones 9-11).

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Temperature and humidity:

Average household room temperatures (65° to 75° F) and humidities are fine. Keep away from cold drafts and spots near heating and cooling vents. If planting outdoors, avoid exposing to temperatures below 45° F.

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Soil type:

Use a well-draining potting mix.

 

Pot requirements:

As with most houseplants, be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil and root rot. Spider plants don’t mind being a bit cramped in their homes, so choose a container that is only slightly larger than your plant’s root ball.

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SPIDER PLANT CARE AND MAINTENANCE

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Watering:

Spider plants like even moisture but can tolerate some neglect because their thick, fleshy roots are able to store water. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

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Fertilizing:

Spider plants can also store nutrients in their roots, so they don’t need frequent fertilization. Feed them every two weeks during spring and summer using a water-soluble organic houseplant fertilizer, and less often or not at all during the fall and winter months. Avoid overfertilizing, which can cause brown leaf tips and prevent your plant from producing offshoots.

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Pruning:

To keep your spider plant looking its best, prune off any brown leaf tips or edges using a sharp pair of small scissors, following the natural angle of the leaf. Also prune off dead or damaged leaves and unwanted runners by cutting them back to soil level. You won’t harm your plant by removing the stems and plantlets, and you will often improve its health and vigor.

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Repotting:

If the roots start pushing through the drainage holes or emerge above the soil surface, it’s time to transplant your plant into a new container. Choose a pot that’s only slight larger than the current one (about 1 to 2 inches) and be sure to refresh the soil to improve drainage.

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Pests:

Spider plants are generally pest-free but may occasionally be bothered by mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. Good treatments for getting rid of these insects include washing the leaves with an insecticidal soap and applying organic neem oil.