Do not let this name intimidate you! Spider plants can quickly adapt to any kind of environment and are tolerant of a few issues This plant is the perfect black thumb plant. They are beautiful window plants, or a stunning plant companion at the workplace. Learn about proper care for spider plants along with benefits and the answer to all questions you be asking.
Spider Plant Overview
The spider plant takes its name due to the small “pups” that resemble a spider’s body. They also bloom tiny white flowers from the stems that are long. The flowering pups usually bloom in summer. Spider plants originated as groundcovers throughout the lush tropical forests of South Africa and moved into our homes in the 19th century.
NASA studies has revealed this plant is equipped with abilities to purify the air. This plant has the ability to eliminate more than 90% of toxic substances that are floating throughout. Stress levels can be reduced and improve mental health when air quality is better inside the space.
Types of Spider Plants
The South African tropical rainforest houses about 65 spider plant species. Only a handful which are brought to our home, though. We have listed a few of the most popular spider plant species below.
Chlorophytum Comosum ‘Variegatum’ (Airplane Plant)
The most well-known of species of spiders, chlorophytum “variegatum” is a variety of the plant with streaked leaves. The middle of every leaf has a light shade of yellow and the outline is a forest green. This plant is very attractive and has a lot of charm and can fill spaces in rooms. This spider plant is the most effective air purifier.
Chlorophytum Comosum ‘Reverse Variegatum’ (Reverse Spider Plant)
The name suggests that the outline and center of leaves are reverse of variegatum. Its outline leaf is pale yellow and the middle of the leaves is green and forest-like. This spider plant is a wonderful method to play with different colors They also get very large!
Chlorophytum Laxum (Zebra Plant)
The zebra spider looks similar to the reverse variegatum’, but it has a brighter yellow outline on its leaves. The zebra spider plant isn’t like the other varieties and instead tends to be wider than larger. It is difficult to find in every nursery, so make sure to check the internet for where to locate this distinctive spider plant.
Chlorophytum Comosum (Bonnie Plant)
This spider plant variety unfolds curly leaves and curly offspring. The bonnie spider plant looks much like a variegated spider plant, but just curly! They are definitely harder to find than the other common types of spider plants, but people tend to buy plant cuttings to start their own bonnie spider plant.
How to Care for a Spider Plant
As we have mentioned previously the spider plants can be black thumb-approved which means there’s no need to worry when taking care of the plants. If you notice your plant turning brown or is not as sexy the way it is supposed to be, make sure to check our tips for getting it back to health. To prevent any harm to your plant take a look at this spider-plant care guidelines below.
Sunlight: Although not picky with lighting, spider plants thrive best in bright light, as they are known for being window plants. Since they are not selective with their lighting choices, they will do just fine in partial direct sun conditions as well. Be careful that your spider plant does not get too much sun — this is noticeable if the leaves begin to burn.
Water: When you receive your new spider plant baby, water occasionally rather than weekly. The best rule of thumb is to let them fully dry out between waterings. Check the soil with your finger every so often and once the soil has completely dried out, it’s time to water again! Once your spider plant fully matures, you’ll find yourself watering the plant more often.
Temperature: Spider plants like sun, but they also prefer cool temperatures ranging from 55-–5ºF. They are very much an indoor plant since they prefer cooler temperatures but don’t worry if they’re placed in slightly warmer temperatures. Avoid temperatures of 50ºF and below.
Toxicity It is presented as being non-toxic, but it is potentially harmful to cats. If eaten, it can cause an uneasy stomach, vomiting and even an upset.
Pests: Spider plants are tough when it comes to pests, but they are susceptible to some pest infestations. Aphids, mealybugs, Whitefield and spider mites can eat your spider plant, but this can be avoided by misting your plants every once in a while. If the problem worsens, you may use natural insecticides made with vinegar to get rid of them.
Issues: The most frequent issue for spider plants is that the leaf tips may shrink and then become black or brown. It is typically the result of overwatering but not drowning. Make sure you let the soil dry completely before you water it again.
Spider plants come indigenous to the tropical rainforests and therefore, they like humidity. Place your plant in a humid area like bathrooms, will help the plant to grow and stay clear of black or brown tips.
Repotting: Wonderful news — spider plants don’t need to be repotted often since much of their growth is through their leaves and plantlets. A major sign that the spider plant needs to be repotted is if the root ball rises above the rim of the pot. Spring is an ideal time to repot spider plants.
Propagation If you’re not certain whether you’re capable of growing a plant, spider plants are one of the best plant to begin with. All you have to do is to pot plants, and they are simple to recognize. They look like small versions of spider plants. Care for them regularly for your new potted plantlet for the best chance of propagating the spider plant.
Common Spider Plant Questions
Have a question about your spider plant? Look through the frequently asked questions to discover the answer. If you’re not able to find the answer to your query, don’t hesitate to share your question in the comments section below.
What is the reason my spider plant is changing color?
The yellow leaves usually indicate that there is an excess of nutrients or minerals in the soil. This means that you might need to relocate the spider plant into more neutral soil. The leaves are also yellow because of lack of sunlight.
Are you able to trim the tips of plants that are brown?
Cut off the brown edges from spiders by taking some precautions. First, you must employ sharp scissors to create an exact cut. In the second instance, if the majority part of your leaf has brown spots, it’s better to cut off the entire leaf. Also, when cutting, try to replicate the shape of the leaf by making cuts, and leave a tiny bit of the brown tips to prevent opening a new wound.
What can you do to help a spider plant that is overwatered?
Place your plant in an area that is shaded even though spider plants like sunlight. Take away fallen or dead leaves. After that, verify if the pot that your spider plant is growing in is properly drained and, if it is possible, make air spaces between the roots. Get rid of dead or dying roots, too. Then, make sure to water the soil after it has dried to the point of touching. You can treat it by fungicides if you need to.
What is the most effective fertilizer for spider plants?
All-purpose complete, water-soluble or granular fertilizer with time-release is suitable the spider plants. Be cautious when fertilizing your plant because the leaves will turn brown. Use fertilizer sparingly.
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