You don’t have to be a decor enthusiast to appreciate the benefits of indoor plants. Not only are plants an easy way to fill your home with some pops of greenery — they’re also known to help purify the air, keep stress at bay and even boost creativity. In other words, they’re a no-brainer to keep around.
If you’re searching for an attractive, low-maintenance option, look no further than the spider plant. Also known as Chlorophytum comosum, the most common variety of spider plants are marked by their long, narrow leaves that feature yellow or white stripes. But there are others to choose from as well. “There are also solidly green plants and some with slightly curly leaves,” says Blythe Yost, co-founder and chief landscape architect of Tilly. “I tend to stick to the classic variegated variety, as I find it most hardy, but they are all very tough, easy-to-grow indoor plants.”
The best part is that caring for spider plants is fairly simple, as they can tolerate neglect. “Just a traditional potting soil will work well and a bright location,” says Yost.
Ready to watch your plant flourish? Follow these simple spider plant care and growing tips from Yost. (By the way, we also love the snake plant as well as the rubber plant for the indoors if you’re looking to fill your home with more greens.)
Watering
Stick to watering it about once a week. Your goal should be well-drained, lightly moist soil. If the plant’s leaves begin browning or even start to die, chances are you’re likely over-watering. On the other hand, the spider plant’s leaves will begin to fade if it’s under-watered. “Just be sure not to over- or under-water your plants,” says Yost. “Stressed out plants are more likely to succumb to pests and diseases.”
Sunlight
Spider plants flourish with bright, indirect sunlight. If they’re exposed to direct light, their leaves can burn. Keep in mind that these plants can survive in other lighting conditions as well, since they’re quite adaptable.
Fertilizing
It’s not necessary to use a lot of fertilizer for your spider plant. An all-purpose one just once or twice a month in the spring and summer is sufficient. A fertilizer that is water soluble is best for this particular plant.
Spider Plant Babies
You might have heard that spider plants make baby plants that are called pups or spiderettes. The good news is that it’s a breeze to grow new plants from them, according to Yost. “Just cut them off the mother plant and either plant the knobby end directly in the soil or soak in water for a week to 10 days until little roots appear and then plant in potting soil.”
Spider plants are a great option if you want to enjoy the beauty of greenery in your interior without all the upkeep. These basic pointers will ensure that your spider plant thrives.
Monique Valeris is the senior home editor for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Previously, she was the digital editor at ELLE Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations. Her idea of a well-decorated room? It must include a dose of pattern play, globally-inspired pieces, and, of course, brass accents. Don’t miss her monthly digital column, “What’s In My Cart,” which highlights the products she can’t get enough of at the moment.
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