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Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are among the most popular houseplants that many people prefer to grow in their homes. This is an extremely adaptable plant that can tolerate many different growing conditions. Because of this, it is a good choice for beginner gardeners who might not have enough experience. It is also great for busy people who can't dedicate much time to plant care.
Spider Plants are easy to grow and they can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Another great thing about these plants is that they are hardy and rarely suffer from diseases or other problems. Perhaps the most common issue are brown tips, but this is not an alarming condition.
The plant got its name because of characteristic runners that dangle down from the mature plant. They resemble spiders hanging from a web and provide a striking image. All of these first start out as small, white flowers on a mother plant. These runners, or spiders, are available in green variety or variegated.
Useful Tips for Growing Spider Plants
If you wish to make your Spider Plants thrive, here are some quick tips that will make them grow strong and healthy:
It is not difficult to care for a Spider Plant properly. These are hardy, tough plants that can tolerate many different growing conditions, even some neglect. It makes them ideal for new gardeners or those who are not great with plants.
The main things you need to provide to your Spider Plant are bright, indirect light and some well-drained soil. This is enough to make them thrive.
Make sure to water your plants well, but never let them sit in water. If the plants get too soggy, it can lead to root rot.
It is best to let the soil dries out between watering. This is the best watering regime for Spider Plants.
Spider Plants are tropical plants and can't tolerate frost. However, they enjoy cooler temperatures, from 55 to 65 degrees F (13 to 18 degrees Celsius). Keep this in mind when deciding on the best spot in your home.
Spider Plants can greatly benefit from some pruning. Do it occasionally to make your plant thrive. You can cut your plant back to the base and it will grow stronger and healthier.
These plants prefer a bit of a pot-bound conditions. It means that you should repot them in a larger container only when you see that their big, fleshy roots are visible, and watering becomes difficult.
It is easy to propagate Spider Plants. The quickest and most effective method is through the division of the mature plant. You can simply divide the plant into segments. Another good way to go is to plant runners (spiders) into the soil. This is a great way if you wish to start with small plants or if you wish to give them as presents for family and friends. You can easily root spiders in potting soil or water. Both are good approaches, but keep in mind that the new plants will typically root more strongly when potted in the soil.
Spider Plants produce flowers in the spring, when the daylight increases. These flowers eventually develop into runners than hang down like spiders. However, keep in mind that this might not always happen: a Spider Plant has to have enough stored energy to produce spiders.
Probably the best way to root new spiders is to keep them attached to the mature plant. Simply choose one and place it in a small pot of soil next to the mature plant. Keep it well watered and observe its growth. Once it develops roots, simply cut it from the mature plant and grow it independently. However, it is also possible to cut off one of the spiders straight away and grow it independently from the start.
When growing new Spider Plants, make sure to put them in a ventilated plastic bag. Place them in a bright location until they root. Once they develop roots, remove the bag and grow them as any other Spider Plant.
Brown Tips: A Common Problem
The most common problem with Spider Plants is browning leaves. If you notice the tips of your Spider Plant getting brown, don't be alarmed. Leaf tips can get brown even under normal conditions and will typically not harm the plant. It is generally a sign that there is too much fluoride in the water. It causes salt buildup in the soil, causing brown tips on leaves.
To fix the problem, give your plant a thorough watering. It should flush out any excess salt. However, make sure to let the water drain out completely. If the brown tips persist, repeat the process. Another thing you can do is to use rainwater or distilled water instead of tap water. Tap water typically contain more fluoride than rainwater and distilled water so it might not be the best choice for your plant.
Photo credit: Valerie Everett
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