Spider Plant
The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a popular and resilient houseplant known for its arching leaves and charming “spiderettes” or baby plantlets that dangle from long stems. Its easy care and distinctive appearance have made it a staple in homes and offices around the world. Spider plants are also excellent air purifiers and bring a fresh, lively aesthetic to any indoor space.
Light:
Spider plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate lower light levels. Avoid direct sunlight, which may scorch the leaves and cause browning at the tips.
Water:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water moderately when the top inch of soil feels dry—usually about once a week. Spider plants may develop brown leaf tips if overwatered or exposed to hard tap water; using filtered or distilled water can help.
Soil:
Use a well-draining, all-purpose potting mix. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot and keep the roots healthy.
Temperature and Humidity:
Spider plants thrive in temperatures between 55–80°F (13–27°C). They appreciate moderate humidity but adapt well to normal household levels. Increasing humidity can boost growth and prevent leaf tips from browning.
Fertilizer:
Feed every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizing is not needed in fall and winter.
Pruning and Repotting:
Trim any brown or dead leaves regularly to maintain the plant’s appearance. Repot every 1–2 years or when the roots outgrow the container. Spider plants readily produce new baby plants that can be propagated easily.
Care Instructions (Quick Reference):
Place in bright, indirect light; tolerates low light.
Water moderately when the top inch of soil is dry.
Use well-draining, all-purpose potting soil.
Keep temperatures between 55–80°F; normal humidity is fine.
Fertilize every 2–4 weeks in spring and summer.
Trim brown tips and dead leaves as needed.
Repot every 1–2 years; propagate baby plants easily.
Fun Facts:
Spider plants can produce dozens of baby plantlets, which hang down like spiders on a web, giving the plant its common name.
They are excellent natural air purifiers, known to remove pollutants like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde from the air, improving indoor air quality.