Spider plant care starts with suitable light and a potting mix that drains. Learn how to water, investigate brown tips and root baby plants, then compare Bonnie, Hawaiian and Reverse Spider Plants.
Light and watering
Medium to bright indirect light is a useful starting point. Avoid harsh direct sun. Let the mix dry slightly between thorough waterings rather than using a fixed weekly schedule. Empty water that collects beneath the pot.
Use our houseplant light guide to assess your room and our potting mix guide when choosing a container.
Why do spider plant tips turn brown?
Several causes can look similar: dry conditions, accumulated fertilizer salts and chemicals in tap water can all contribute. Check watering, humidity and feeding before choosing a remedy. Distilled water or rainwater may help when water quality is involved. Constantly wet, poorly drained soil can damage roots.
Compare the clues in our brown leaf-tip guide. Photograph the whole plant, the affected leaf and the potting mix so you can compare changes.
How to root spider plant babies
- Choose a plantlet that has begun developing roots.
- Set it on the surface of potting medium in a small container, keeping it attached to the parent while it roots.
- Hold it in contact with the medium, if necessary, and watch for roots to establish.
- Cut the connecting stem after it has rooted.
You can also pot a detached plantlet that already has roots. Judge progress by the roots rather than a promised number of days.
What if there are no babies yet?
Plantlet formation responds to light and day length. Heavy fertilizing can reduce it. Give the parent suitable conditions and avoid trying to force new plantlets with extra fertilizer. A hanging basket leaves room for the stems and foliage to cascade.
Compare the plants in our shop
- Bonnie Spider Plant — curling, striped foliage.
- Hawaiian Spider Plant — arching foliage with changing color as leaves mature.
- Reverse Spider Plant — green-centered leaves with pale edges.
Choose an available pot size on the listing. Photos illustrate the variety; your plant's fullness, markings and baby-plant development naturally vary.
Spider plants in homes with pets
ASPCA lists Chlorophytum comosum as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Discourage chewing and place the container securely. Compare our pet-friendly indoor plants for more choices.
Browse available spider plants and check planters with drainage and saucers for a suitable fit.
References
Care and propagation references: Wisconsin Extension's spider plant guide, NC State Extension's plant profile and ASPCA's spider plant entry.
