You can grow new spider plants (also known as spiderettes or pups) easily by planting the baby plants that develop on the ends of the mother plant's runners. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Methods for Propagating Spider Plants
There are two primary methods for propagating spider plants: planting the spiderettes while still attached to the mother plant, or separating them and planting them independently. Both are straightforward!
Method 1: Planting Spiderettes While Attached
This method is generally considered easier as it provides the spiderette with a continuous source of nutrients and moisture while it establishes roots.
- Prepare a Pot: Fill a small pot with well-draining potting mix. A soilless mix is ideal for starting new plants.
- Position the Spiderette: Place the prepared pot next to the mother plant. Carefully position a spiderette over the pot, ensuring the base of the spiderette (where the roots will emerge) is in contact with the soil. You can gently bury the base slightly.
- Secure if Needed: If the spiderette doesn't stay in place on its own, use a small hairpin or paperclip to gently secure it to the soil.
- Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil in the new pot consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Wait for Roots: After a few weeks, the spiderette will develop roots. You can gently tug on the spiderette; if you feel resistance, it means roots have formed.
- Separate the Plants: Once the roots are well-established (usually after a month or two), you can cut the runner connecting the spiderette to the mother plant. You now have a new, independent spider plant!
Method 2: Separating and Planting Spiderettes
This method is suitable once the spiderettes have already developed small root nubs.
- Inspect Spiderettes: Look for spiderettes that have visible root nubs or small roots emerging.
- Separate the Spiderette: Using clean scissors or pruning shears, carefully cut the runner connecting the spiderette to the mother plant. Leave a small portion of the stem attached to the spiderette.
- Prepare a Pot: Fill a small pot with well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the Spiderette: Make a small hole in the soil and gently place the spiderette into the hole, burying the small portion of stem where the roots are emerging.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the newly planted spiderette thoroughly.
- Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Provide Humidity: To help the spiderette establish roots, you can increase humidity by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag or placing it in a humidity dome for a few days. Remove the cover periodically to allow for air circulation and prevent fungal growth.
- Observe Growth: After a few weeks, the spiderette should begin to grow new leaves, indicating successful root development.
General Tips for Success
- Timing: Spring and summer are the best times to propagate spider plants, as they are actively growing.
- Light: Provide bright, indirect light for both the mother plant and the new spiderettes. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Watering: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Once the new spider plant is well-established, you can begin fertilizing it with a balanced houseplant fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Patience: It may take a few weeks for the spiderettes to develop roots, so be patient and consistent with your care.
