Spider plant is one of the most common houseplants, and it grows quickly in both water and soil. Spider plant leaves can be all green or a mixture of white and green. It also produces white flowers. It is very popular for its pretty flowers, striped leaves, and ease of maintenance. When the plants mature, they produce ‘pups’ or ‘babies’. This is truly a simple yet stylish plant that can turn your house into a mini forest.
Now, I will share with you the tips on how I take care of my plant:
1. Adequate Light
Adequate light is very important for your lovely spider plant to grow well. Spider plant is an indirect sunlight plant. Basically, it is a shade-loving plant. Direct sunlight can burn its leaves. So, direct light is not good for your spider plant. Always keep it away from direct sunlight and place it in a shady spot.
2. Loamy Soil
Loamy soil is best for spider plants. They can grow in all types of soil, including mixes with sand or coco coir. However, soil mixed with coco coir is especially beneficial for indoor spider plants. They prefer well-draining soil and neutral pH.
3. Right Place
As we already know, spider plants prefer indirect light. So, you should keep your plant in a shady place. I hang mine on the balcony where it stays bright even when the sun doesn’t shine. You can also place it on your house’s balcony. In general, you can place it anywhere indoors, but make sure it is not exposed to direct sunlight. When growing in water, direct sunlight can increase bacterial growth.
4. Sufficient Water
Excess water is harmful to spider plants. They like slightly moist soil, but overly wet soil can cause root rot and eventually kill the plant. If you grow it in soil, water every 2 to 3 days. If you grow it in water, change the water every week.
5. Fertilizer
There is no specific fertilizer for spider plants. You can use any type you prefer. However, water-soluble and slow-release fertilizers are recommended. Since spider plants are flowering plants, a fertilizer with more phosphorus is beneficial. For higher foliage growth, you can use one with a higher nitrogen ratio. Fertilizers help your plants grow properly, but the best time to apply them is during summer and spring—the main growing seasons.
6. Propagation
Propagation is an important part of plant care, and it is very easy with spider plants.
First, select where you want to propagate your plant—water or soil. Then, choose a healthy vine and cut it to your preferred size. The size should match your container. After cutting, place it in soil or a pot of water. After 4 to 5 days, roots will begin to grow, and your plant will start developing.
7. Protection from Insects
Insect attacks are a common and serious issue. Insects can dry out the soil, damage the leaves, and stunt plant growth. To prevent this, you can spray neem oil. You can also place a clove of garlic in the soil to deter bugs.
8. Plant Pruning
Pruning is very useful for your spider plant. It encourages fresh growth.
First, remove any leaves that have turned from green to yellow. Then trim back some vines to maintain the plant’s shape. After this, your pruning will be complete.
9. Solving Other Problems with Your Plant
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves can result from various issues: overwatering, too much fertilizer, excessive direct sunlight, or pest attacks. To avoid this problem, reduce watering, do not over-fertilize, keep the plant out of direct sunlight, and eliminate pests.
However, during winter, yellow leaves are natural. So don’t worry—winter is a resting time for many plants.
Drooping of the Plant
Drooping is not a normal condition. It may be caused by insufficient or excessive water, over-fertilizing, or pest attacks. To keep your plant healthy, you must address these issues properly.
