Spider plant care guide
Chlorophytum comosum
Also known as: Airplane plant, Ribbon plant
Pets and children
Caution advised
Cats like to chew it, and eating it can cause vomiting and diarrhea; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Spider plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide; the thick roots store water, so a little drying does no harm.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Once it cools, wait about a day or two after the soil dries before watering.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly roughly three to four days after the soil dries.
Light and placement for Spider plant
Generally happiest in bright light through a sheer curtain; it tolerates shade, but a dark spot makes the leaves thin and limp and blurs the stripes, while midsummer sun scorches them.
Overwintering Spider plant
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
Fairly cold-tolerant, taking around 0°C; as a guide, keep it out of frost under the eaves or in a bright spot indoors and on the dry side, and trim damaged leaves in spring for fresh growth.
Fertilizing and repotting Spider plant
Fertilizer
From April to September, a diluted liquid feed about every two weeks or slow-release fertilizer roughly every two months; a plant producing many plantlets can take a little more, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Spider plant
- Dry air and minerals in tap water brown the leaf tips.
- Roots fill the pot until water cannot get in, and the leaves die back from the tips.
- Summer sun bleaches and scorches the leaves.
Tips for growing Spider plant
- Plantlets on the runners root easily when set in water or soil.
- The thick roots can crack a pot, so repot or divide every year or two.
- Trim browned leaf tips following the leaf's shape so they do not show.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
