How to Propagate Spider Plants: Simple Steps to Grow Baby Spiderettes Like a Pro
Want more spider plants for free?
Spider plants are not just beginner-friendly they’re propagation champions. With their adorable “spiderettes” hanging from arching stems, these plants practically beg to be multiplied.
🌱 Quick Guide: Learn how to root spiderettes easily in water or soil, and boost your plant collection : no experience needed!
Quick Answer: How Do You Propagate a Spider Plant?
Cut a healthy spiderette (baby plant) from the mother.
Place it in water or moist soil.
Wait 1–3 weeks for roots to form.
Transplant into a pot with well-draining mix.
Care like a mature spider plant!
Now let’s walk through each step in detail
What Are Spiderettes? (And Why They’re Easy to Root)
Spiderettes are the little baby plants that grow from long, arching stems on a mature spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum). Once they start developing small root nubs, they’re ready to be propagated.
Fun Fact: Most spider plants produce multiple offshoots at once so one plant can quickly turn into five (or more!).
How to Propagate Spider Plants in Water
This method is easy, visual, and beginner-friendly.
Step-by-Step:
Choose a healthy spiderette with visible root nodes.
Cut it off the mother plant using clean scissors.
Place it in a glass of room-temperature water.
Set the glass near a bright, indirect light source.
Change water weekly to keep it fresh.
After 1–2 weeks, roots will appear. Once roots are 2–3 inches long, transplant to soil.
✅ Pro Tip: Use a transparent glass to watch roots develop it’s a great beginner science experiment too!
How to Propagate Spider Plants in Soil
Prefer a no-transfer method? Try rooting directly in soil.
Step-by-Step:
Cut a spiderette with visible root bumps.
Plant it in moist, well-draining potting mix (avoid soggy soil).
Keep in a warm, bright spot, away from direct sunlight.
Mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
Roots should develop in 2–3 weeks.
✅ Pro Tip: Use seedling trays or 2-inch pots for easy transplanting later.
Popular Spider Plant Varieties You Can Propagate
| Variety | Description |
|---|---|
| ‘Variegatum’ | Green leaves with white edges |
| ‘Bonnie’ | Compact, curly, ribbon-like foliage |
| ‘Ocean’ | Dwarf form with creamy margins |
All varieties can be propagated the same way!
Common Spider Plant Problems (and Solutions)
| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Brown tips | Fluoride or salts in tap water | Switch to distilled or rainwater |
| Yellowing leaves | Overwatering | Let soil dry, ensure proper drainage |
| No spiderettes | Low light or stress | Move to brighter spot; fertilize monthly |
| Wilting | Rootbound or dry soil | Repot and increase watering frequency |
Are Spider Plants Safe for Pets?
Yes! According to the ASPCA, spider plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Note: Cats may chew on the leaves, which can cause mild digestive upset. Hang plants or place them out of reach if needed.
Explore Our Top Picks for Pet-Safe Indoor Plants
Spider Plant Care After Propagation
Once your propagated spiderette has been potted:
Place in bright, indirect light
Water when the top inch of soil is dry
Fertilize monthly during growing season
Avoid letting water sit in the saucer
Basic Care Table
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect (tolerates low light) |
| Water | Once soil’s top inch is dry |
| Temperature | 65–75°F (18–24°C), avoid cold drafts |
| Humidity | Moderate (enjoys misting occasionally) |
| Soil | Loose, well-draining indoor mix |
| Pruning | Remove spiderettes + brown tips regularly |
Benefits of Growing & Propagating Spider Plants
Air Purifying – NASA-approved for improving indoor air
Beginner-Friendly – Forgives overwatering or low light
Pet-Safe – Perfect for families with furry companions
Fast-Multiplying – Grows new baby plants year-round
Mood Boosting – Adds life and greenery to any room
🛠️ Products Mentioned in This Guide:
- Distilled Water for Houseplants– Prevent brown tips caused by fluoride and tap water salts
- Seedling Trays & Mini Pots– Ideal for rooting spiderettes and early propagation
- Indoor Potting Mix (Well-Draining)– Promotes healthy roots and prevents soggy soil issues
FAQs: How to Propagate Spider Plants
Q: What is the scientific name of the spider plant?
A: Chlorophytum comosum.
Q: Can I propagate without cutting the spiderette?
A: Yes! Keep the baby attached and rest it in a small pot of soil near the mother plant. Once rooted, snip the runner.
Q: What’s the best time of year to propagate?
A: Spring and summer offer the fastest rooting due to warmth and light.
Q: Can spider plants grow in water permanently?
A: They can survive, but they thrive best in soil. Prolonged water rooting may lead to weak growth.
Q: How do I know it’s time to transplant?
A: When water-rooted spiderettes have 2–3 inch roots, or when soil-propagated ones show new top growth.
