The green and glossy grassy foliage of the Hawaiian spider plant (sometimes called spider lily or airplane plant) is extremely popular. This is largely because it grows so well and new plants are very easy to raise from the natural 'spider babies' that are produced on the long stalks as the plant matures.
Light and Position
Good light is required if these plants are to retain their colouring and not become thin and wispy. Very strong light can damage the leaves. Protect plants from cold draughts especially if they are placed on the window sill.
Temperature Range
The Spider plant indoor thrive at normal room temperature of 10-18 degrees centigrade (55-60F) and will not do well below 7 degrees centigrade (45F).
Watering
The spider lily is easy to water by any method and likes a lot of water in the growing period. In the rest period, water more moderately, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings.
Feeding
Feed fortnightly throughout the year with a good liquid fertilizer, especially once the plant has started to produce plantlets. Use only a low dose fertilizer like a 4-4-4 or 2-4-4. Without feeding, the tops of the leaves will quickly turn brown, marring the appearance of the plant and retarding it’s growth however, too much feeding will produce a very busy plant that will never flower.
Seasonal Care
In general, this is an easy plant to care for but remember to water it less in the rest period and to protect it from direct sunlight and sudden temperature drops. New plants can be grown at any time.
Soil
Use a loam-based mixture for potting and make sure there is enough space around the plant for the growth of its thick fleshy roots. Place the root ball about 1" below the rim of the pot. Repot in a large pot whenever the roots force the soil to the rim.
Propagating
Cut off the plantlets (spider babies) when their leaves are 2-3" long and place them in a jar of water until the roots are 1" long and then pot them. Alternatively, leave the plantlets attached to the mother until the roots are developed and then peg them into the soil. Cut them away when they have obviously rooted.
Varieties
There are many spider plant varieties the most common type is Chlorophytum Comosum 'Variegatum', featuring a white stripe in the middle of each blade. This is most likely the one that you’ve seen sold in garden centers and nurseries.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, Symphalids, Mealy Bug, Sciarid
FAQ's
What do I do with spider plant babies?
As they are one of the easiest indoor plants to maintain, spider plants make excellent gifts if transferred to small attractive pots and decorated with ribbon.
What are spider plants good for?
As well as making excellent gifts, spider plants produce oxygen and purify the air in your home and office by absorbing carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and xylene.
Are spider plants toxic to dogs or cats?
Spider Plants are non-toxic and are in fact edible, making them safe for pets and young children.
Are coffee grounds good for spider plants?
Occasional watering with diluted coffee is beneficial to spider plant, helping to achieve their ideal soil pH of 6.1 to 6.5. The recommended ratio of coffee to water is one part coffee to three parts water.