Commonly known as : Spider plant / Hen and Chicken
Botanical Name: Chlorophytum comosum
Spider plant care guide
Light Requirements
Best Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light. However, avoid direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves.
Tip: Place it near a window with filtered light for optimal growth.
Watering
Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Additionally, allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Avoid: Overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Conversely, do not let the soil become bone dry for too long.
Humidity
Ideal Levels: Prefers average household humidity but also tolerates drier air.
Tip: In very dry conditions, consider misting occasionally to prevent leaf browning. Moreover, grouping plants together can naturally increase humidity.
Soil
Type: Use a well-draining potting mix. We recommend Barks Unlimited Potting Soil for healthy growth, complemented by Perlite for improved aeration and drainage. In particular, this combination ensures proper moisture balance.
Temperature
Preferred Range: 18-27°C. It is important to protect the plant from frost and sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
When and How: Feed every two weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Alternatively, use a Controlled Release Fertilizer for up to 6 months of nourishment. For organic care, try Terraplus Natura N, which enriches the soil naturally. Furthermore, avoid over-fertilizing, as it may harm the plant.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning: Trim off brown tips and spent leaves to maintain a tidy appearance. As an added benefit, this also encourages healthy growth.
Pup Removal: Gently remove plantlets for propagation or to manage the plant’s size.
Repotting
Frequency: Repot every 1-2 years or when the roots become crowded. In addition, refreshing the soil during repotting ensures continued health.
Best Time: Early spring is the ideal time for repotting.
Propagation
Method: Propagate by planting the ‘pups’ in soil or water until they root. In doing so, you can easily create new plants.
Timing: Propagate in spring or summer for the best results.
Common Pests and Problems
Pests: Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. If you notice an infestation, treat it promptly with insecticidal soap.
Leaf Browning: This is often caused by overwatering, low humidity, or fluoride in water. Therefore, consider using filtered water if needed.
Special Notes
Pet Safe: Spider plants are non-toxic to pets. However, they may cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.
Air Purifying: This plant helps improve indoor air quality by removing toxins. Furthermore, its resilience makes it perfect for beginners.
The Spider Plant’s graceful appearance and adaptability make it a must-have for any indoor plant enthusiast!
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