As far as the list of easy-to-care-for houseplants goes, spider plants are near the top. Stress-free, happy to grow on their own, and great for cleaning the air in your home, too!

Spider plants, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, are low-maintenance plants native to the South African coast. These fantastic perennials are known for their spindly leaves and plantlets that resemble spiders. For new or forgetful plant parents, these houseplants are also quick to forgive if their watering schedules get delayed.

Though spider plants are a simple addition to any home, they still require a bit of love and attention to thrive. Do you have a spider plant of your own? Wondering how to keep your plant baby happy and healthy long-term? Here is everything you need to know about caring for your spider plant!

Materials Required

Close up image of spider plant leaves

Image credits: Alberto Nicoletta via Unsplash

When it comes to caring for your spider plant, it's helpful to keep the following materials at-the-ready:

  • Watering can
  • Well-draining pot
  • Balanced liquid fertilizer
  • New containers for propagating

Step One – Find the Perfect Spot

spider plant resting on floating shelf next to books

Image credits: Beazy via Unsplash

Though spider plants are not too fussy about where you set them, they do have a preference.

These houseplants prefer humid rooms with indirect sunlight. Note that keeping them in direct sunshine often harms and damages the leaves. Instead, opt for rooms that get plenty of sun but do not shine harshly upon your plant.

With enough indirect sunlight, spider plants are also content to live in rooms on the cooler side. The ideal temperature for your spider plant is somewhere between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Rooms that are hotter or cooler than this range decreases potential growth.

Step Two - Water Your Spider Plant

Asian man watering plant at home, Businessman taking care of Chlorophytum comosum ( Spider plant ) in white hanging pot after work, on the weekend, Air purifying plants for home, Stress relief concept

Image credits: Yaoinlove via Shutterstock

To keep your spider plant flourishing, water them regularly. Spider plants require more water in the growing season (summer) and reduced watering in the cold winter months. Generally, water your spider plant about once a week using clean, filtered water in the active growing phases.

Not sure if your plant is getting enough water or too much? To determine if your plant needs a dose of H2O, stick your finger into the soil. Is it dry or moist? Dry means water, and damp means leaving your plant for a few more days before checking again.

Remember that spider plants do not do well with overwatering. Ensure the pot your spider plant is in has good drainage to prevent root rot and other overwatering issues. Also, give your spider plant more time to dry out between watering for the best results.

Pro Tip: Spider plants are drought tolerant due to their thick rhizomes. It's better to let your plant go a few extra days without watering than watering it too early!

Step Three – Fertilize (Occasionally)

spider plants and other houseplants resting on a windowsill

Image credits: Brad Christian via Unsplash

Fertilizing your indoor plants during the active growing phase is a fantastic way to give them an additional boost. The best time to fertilize your spider plant is once during the summer. There is no need to fertilize in winter due to their dormant state.

Wondering what type of fertilizer to use for your spider plant? Try using a balanced indoor plant fertilizer. Liquid, water-soluble, or time-released fertilizers are the preference of avid spider plant gardeners.

Pro Tip: Always avoid overfertilizing your plant! Too much food too quickly often results in browning/burning of the leaf tips. 

Step Four – Propagate Your Growing Spider Plant

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A healthy spider plant is one that also produces spider plant babies! For those thriving plants, small spider-looking offsets/plantlets will appear hanging off of your plant.

Spider plant propagation is as easy as they come. Some gardeners prefer to remove the plantlet for propagation. In this method, take the small "spiderette" and place it in a cup of water. Once it begins developing roots, put your new spider plant into soil.

On the other hand, some gardeners choose to grow their plantlets while still attached to the parent plant. To propagate while still attached, rest the new spider plant on soil next to the parent plant. When the new plantlet takes root, sever its connection to the parent. Just like that, you have a new houseplant to gift or grow!

Give Your Spider Plant the Love it Deserves!

When it comes to caring for houseplants, spider plants are not fussy. They quickly forgive if neglected and survive even if you don't water them regularly. Despite all they can put up with, spider plants continue to share the love. They are a stunning addition hanging from the ceiling or in a pot on a side table. Even better, they clean the air and provide new plant babies to grow!

Ready to give your spider plant the love they deserve? Use the above guide to keep your spider plant in its best health. Doing so will reward you with a long-lasting houseplant!

Wondering what other houseplants are easy to care for and grow? Take a look at this article with all the best low-maintenance plants, perfect for new plant parents!