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Spider Plant Care Guide

Few houseplants are as iconic and beginner-friendly as the Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum).
With its graceful, arching leaves and baby offshoots (“spiderettes”), it’s a living symbol of vitality and growth — perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, or tabletops.

Known for improving indoor air quality and thriving with minimal effort, the Spider Plant is a must-have for every home.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) in a colorful pot.

🌤️ Light Requirements

Spider Plants love bright, indirect light, but they’re also highly adaptable.
They can tolerate lower light, though their variegation (white or yellow stripes) becomes more vibrant in brighter conditions.

☀️ Best spot: Near a window with filtered sunlight — east- or north-facing is ideal.
🚫 Avoid prolonged harsh sun, which can scorch the leaf tips.


💧 Watering

Water your Spider Plant when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry.
They prefer slightly moist soil but are very forgiving if you miss a watering or two.

💦 Pro tip: Use filtered or distilled water if possible — Spider Plants can be sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water, which causes brown tips.

✅ In winter, reduce watering frequency.

Signs of overwatering: mushy roots or yellow leaves.
Signs of underwatering: crispy leaf tips and drooping leaves that recover after watering.

Spider Plant in a basket | House plant | All About Planties

🌿 Humidity & Temperature

Spider Plants thrive in average home humidity (40–60%) and temperatures between 60–80°F (16–27°C).
They enjoy moderate humidity but adapt easily to drier indoor air.

🌬️ Keep them away from direct cold drafts, air conditioners, or heating vents.


🪴 Soil & Fertilizer

Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and compost.
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a mild, balanced fertilizer (half strength is best).
Avoid overfertilizing, which can lead to brown leaf tips.


🌱 Growth & Propagation

Spider Plants are famous for producing baby offshoots — or “spiderettes.”
Once they develop small roots, you can easily propagate them in water or directly in soil.

Trim any brown or damaged leaves to encourage new growth.
As they mature, repot every 1–2 years to give roots more space.

🌸 Fun fact: Spider Plants are among NASA’s top air-purifying plants — they help remove toxins like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.

Spider plant in elegant room

✨ Varieties & Their Unique Traits


🪴Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’

Curly and compact, with green-and-cream spiral leaves.
Perfect for small spaces or hanging planters.

Spider Bonnie |  Easy Care Plant | All About Planties


👉 Shop Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’ →


🪴Spider Plant ‘Reverse’

Variegated with green centers and creamy white edges — a classic look with a twist.
Grows slightly larger than ‘Bonnie’ and loves bright, filtered light.

Spider Plant Reverse | Indoor Houseplant by All About Planties


👉 Shop Spider Plant ‘Reverse’ →


🪴Spider Plant ‘Hawaiian’

Tropical tones with lush green leaves and golden centers.
Compact, vibrant, and perfect for bright rooms.

Spider Plant Hawaian | Live Houseplant at All About Planties


👉 Shop Spider Plant ‘Hawaiian’ →


🛑 Common Issues

Symptom Cause Solution
Brown tips Tap water or low humidity Use filtered water; mist occasionally
Yellow leaves Overwatering Let soil dry out before watering again
Limp leaves Root-bound or thirsty Check roots; repot if needed
Pale leaves Too little light Move closer to indirect sunlight

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Are Spider Plants pet-safe?
✅ Yes! Spider Plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs — one reason they’re so popular.

Why are the leaf tips brown?
Usually from fluoride in tap water or dry air. Switch to filtered water and mist occasionally.

Can Spider Plants grow in water?
Yes! They can root and live in water for weeks — just change the water regularly.

When should I repot my Spider Plant?
Every 1–2 years or when roots begin to crowd and circle the pot.


🌼 Bring Home the Joy of Spider Plants

From the curly Bonnie to the tropical Hawaiian, Spider Plants brighten any corner with effortless charm and resilience.
👉 Shop All Spider Plants →

 

Shop ‘Bonnie’ Shop ‘Reverse’ Shop ‘Hawaiian’

Houseplants on a patio in pots, receiving shaded outdoor light

🌿 More Planties to Explore

Love learning about plants? Keep exploring our Plant Care Library to discover more tips, fun facts, and easy-care guides for your favorite greens — from tropical wonders to low-light beauties.

Browse the Library