Care Instructions for a Spider Plant

Overview

The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a popular house plant that consists of long, narrow leaves that arch over the sides of a hanging container. As the spider plant matures, small plantlets and miniature white blooms will grow on the end of runners that extend from the center of the plant. Spider plants are easy to get along with and will grow quickly with minimal care.

Step 1

Plant the spider plant in a sturdy hanging container that has bottom drainage. Fill the container with general purpose commercial potting soil.

Step 2

Place the spider plant in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant directly in a sunny window, as excessive bright light can scorch the leaves.

Step 3

Check the potting soil daily. Feed the spider plant warm water when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch. Add water until it runs through the bottom of the drainage holes. Allow the plant to drain completely, then pour out any water remaining in the drainage saucer. Never allow the container to stand in water.

Step 4

Keep the spider plant in a moderately warm room with daytime temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees F, and about 10 degrees cooler during the night.

Step 5

Fertilize the spider plant every week during spring and summer, using a general purpose liquid fertilizer for indoor plants. Feed the plant a granular time-release fertilizer, which will only need to be applied in early spring, if you prefer. Follow the fertilizer's label instructions for dosage.