Growing a spider plant in water is a fun and low-maintenance way to enjoy this versatile houseplant. With no soil needed, it’s a great option for creating a clean, modern display while still letting the plant thrive.
But how do you set it up for success – and what care does a water-grown spider plant need?
Let’s go over the simple steps to grow your spider plant in water and keep it healthy.
Table of Contents
Easy Spider Plant Care Guide 💚
⭐ Want one? Get your very own Spider Plant here
💧 Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Spider plants prefer slightly moist soil but can tolerate occasional drying out. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
🌱 Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix - I personally use this potting mix - which works great, especially with added perlite for better aeration (like that one has).
☀️ Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal, but Spider plants are adaptable and can handle lower light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to scorch.
🌡️ Temperature: Keep your Spider plant in a room between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They don’t like cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
🌿 Fertilizer: Feed with a diluted, balanced fertilizer (my top pick is this Miracle-Gro one) once a month during the growing season. Hold off on fertilizing in fall and winter.
Can I Grow Spider Plants in Water?
You can absolutely grow spider plants in water. It’s a simple and low-maintenance method that works well for this adaptable species. Water propagation lets you easily root and grow new spider plants from cuttings.
Benefits of Growing Spider Plants in Water
Growing spider plants in water offers several advantages. You’ll save money on soil and pots while still enjoying lush greenery. It’s cleaner than soil-based growing, with no mess from dirt. You can also watch the roots develop, which is both educational and visually appealing.
Water-grown spider plants need less frequent care. You won’t have to worry about watering schedules or soil moisture levels. The clear containers let you quickly check water levels and add more when needed.
This method also offers a new way to decorate with your spider plant. You can use creative containers like mason jars or vintage glassware to display your plants.
It’s also a great way to propagate new plants from cuttings to share with friends or expand your collection.
Selecting Your Spider Plant
Choosing the right spider plant is crucial for successful water propagation. Look for healthy, vibrant specimens with strong roots and lush foliage.
Consider the size and maturity of the plantlets to ensure they’re ready for water growth.
Healthy Plant Characteristics
When picking a spider plant, check for bright green leaves without brown tips or yellowing edges. The plant should have a full, bushy appearance with multiple stems.
Avoid plants with wilted or drooping leaves, as these may be signs of poor health or stress.
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Inspect the base of the plant for any signs of rot or pest infestation. A healthy spider plant will have firm, white roots that are free from discoloration or mushy spots.
Choosing the Right Plantlet
Select plantlets that are at least 2-3 inches long with several leaves and visible root nodes. These small offshoots, also called “spiderettes” or even the very cute “spider plant babies” should still be attached to the mother plant.
Look for plantlets with 2-3 small roots already forming – these will adapt more quickly to water growth. Avoid very young or underdeveloped plantlets, as they may struggle to thrive on their own.
Gently tug on the plantlet to ensure it’s firmly attached to the stem before cutting it for propagation.
Setting Up for Growth
Growing spider plants in water is simple and rewarding. You’ll need a few key materials and properly prepared water to get started.
Materials Needed
To grow your spider plant in water, gather these items:
- A clear glass container
- Clean, room-temperature water
- Spider plant cuttings or baby plantlets
- Optional (but recommended!): Liquid fertilizer for hydroponics (I prefer this one)
Choose a container that’s wide enough to support your plant and deep enough to cover the roots. Mason jars, vases, or even repurposed bottles work well. Make sure the container is clean to prevent algae growth.
Obtain healthy spider plant cuttings or baby plantlets, also called “spiderettes.” These should have some roots already forming.
If you’re using cuttings, take them from a mature, healthy plant.
Preparing the Water
Fill your chosen container with clean, room-temperature water. Tap water is usually fine, but if you have hard water, consider using filtered or distilled water. Let tap water sit out for 24 hours to allow chlorine to evaporate.
If you want to boost growth, add a small amount of liquid fertilizer made for hydroponic systems. Follow the package instructions carefully – too much can harm your plant.
Change the water weekly to keep it fresh and prevent algae growth. When refilling, make sure the water level always covers the roots.
Rooting Your Plant
Spider plants are easy to propagate in water. This method allows you to observe root development and provides a simple way to start new plants.
And another great part of this is that you’ll only need a few supplies and a bit of patience to succeed.
Immersion Technique
Start by cutting a healthy spider plant runner with several plantlets. Choose a clear glass or jar and fill it with room temperature water. Place the plantlet in the water, making sure its base is submerged. Keep the leaves above water to prevent rotting.
Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. This helps prevent bacterial growth and ensures oxygen for the developing roots.
Place the container in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can overheat the water and damage the plantlet.
Caring for Developing Roots
Watch for root growth within 1-2 weeks. You’ll see small white roots emerging from the base of the plantlet.
Let the roots grow to about 1-2 inches long before transplanting. This usually takes 3-4 weeks, depending on conditions.
While waiting for roots to develop, maintain a consistent environment. Keep the water at room temperature and protect the plantlet from drafts.
If you notice any yellowing leaves, remove them promptly to prevent decay. Once roots are established, you can transfer your new spider plant to soil or continue growing it in water.
Maintaining Water Quality
Spider plants thrive in clean, fresh water. Proper water maintenance ensures healthy growth and prevents issues like root rot.
Regular water changes and avoiding harmful additives are key to success.
Changing the Water
You’ll need to change the water for your spider plant every 1-2 weeks. Empty the container and rinse it thoroughly to remove any algae or debris.
Refill with room temperature tap water that’s been left out overnight to dechlorinate. This allows chlorine and other chemicals to evaporate.
If you notice the water becoming cloudy or developing an odor before the 2-week mark, change it immediately. During warmer months or in bright light, you may need more frequent changes.
Always ensure the water level covers the roots but doesn’t submerge the entire plant.
Water Additives to Avoid
Don’t add fertilizers or plant food directly to the water. These can quickly lead to nutrient buildup and harm your spider plant. Avoid using distilled water or water from water softeners – both lack essential minerals.
You should also steer clear of adding sugar, vitamins, or household chemicals to the water. These can promote algae growth or damage the plant’s roots.
If you want to boost nutrients, use a diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, but replace the water with plain water after a day.
Sunlight and Placement
Spider plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They can adapt to different light conditions, but proper placement is key for healthy growth.
Choosing the right spot and understanding light requirements will help your spider plant flourish in water.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Place your spider plant near a north or east-facing window for ideal light exposure. These locations provide bright, indirect light throughout the day without harsh direct sunlight.
If you only have south or west-facing windows, position the plant a few feet away from the window or use sheer curtains to filter the light.
Avoid dark corners or areas with low light, as this can lead to slow growth and pale leaves. When it comes to spider plants’ light needs, they can tolerate some direct morning sun, but protect them from intense afternoon rays that may scorch their leaves.
Consider rotating your plant every few weeks to ensure even growth on all sides. This will help maintain its symmetrical appearance and prevent it from leaning towards the light source.
Understanding Light Requirements
Spider plants prefer bright, indirect light for 12-14 hours a day. They can tolerate lower light conditions but may grow more slowly and produce fewer plantlets. In low light, their leaves might become pale or lose their variegation.
Too much direct sunlight can damage spider plants, causing leaf burn and brown tips. If you notice these signs, move your plant to a less sunny spot.
During winter months when daylight is limited, you might need to supplement with artificial grow lights to maintain healthy growth.
Monitor your spider plant’s response to its current light conditions. Healthy plants will have vibrant green leaves with crisp white stripes.
If the leaves become pale or the stripes fade, it’s likely not getting enough light. Adjust its position accordingly to keep your water-grown spider plant thriving.
Feeding Your Spider Plant
Spider plants grown in water require regular feeding to thrive. Providing the right nutrients in the correct amounts is crucial for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Liquid Fertilizer Application
You’ll need to use liquid fertilizer for your water-grown spider plant. Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer – like my favorite one here – with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Mix it at half the strength recommended on the label. Add the diluted fertilizer to the water every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Be careful not to overfeed – this can lead to salt buildup and damage your plant. If you notice brown leaf tips, it might be a sign of too much fertilizer.
In this case, flush the container with clean water and reduce feeding frequency.
During fall and winter, cut back on fertilizing. Your spider plant’s growth slows down in these months, so it needs fewer nutrients. Feed it once every 6-8 weeks with a very dilute solution.
Nutritional Needs
Spider plants don’t require heavy feeding, but they do need some key nutrients. Nitrogen promotes leaf growth, while phosphorus supports root development. Potassium helps with overall plant health and disease resistance.
Look for a fertilizer that also contains trace elements like iron, manganese, and zinc. These micronutrients are important for chlorophyll production and preventing leaf yellowing.
If your spider plant’s leaves are pale or yellowing, it might be lacking iron. You can address this by adding a few drops of liquid iron supplement to the water. Always follow the product instructions to avoid overfeeding.
Remember to change the water completely every few weeks to prevent nutrient buildup and maintain good water quality for your spider plant.
Common Issues and Solutions
Growing spider plants in water can present challenges. Algae growth and root rot are two primary concerns that may affect your plant’s health.
Addressing these issues promptly will help ensure your spider plant thrives in its aquatic environment.
Dealing with Algae
Algae growth is a common problem when growing spider plants in water. It can harm your plant by competing for nutrients and oxygen.
To prevent algae, keep your plant in a spot with indirect sunlight. If you notice green patches forming, clean the container and change the water immediately.
Use opaque containers to limit light exposure to the water. This will slow down algae growth.
Adding a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to the water can also help control algae. Just be careful not to use too much, as it can harm your plant’s roots.
Preventing Root Rot
Root rot is a serious issue that can kill your spider plant. It’s often caused by poor water circulation or contaminated water.
To prevent root rot, change the water weekly and rinse the roots gently. Use room temperature, dechlorinated water to avoid shocking the plant.
Make sure the container has proper drainage or air circulation. If you notice any mushy or dark brown roots, trim them off with clean scissors.
Don’t let the water level get too high – keep it just below the crown of the plant.
If root rot has set in, you might need to take drastic action. Remove the plant from water, trim all affected roots, and start fresh with clean water and a sterilized container.
Transferring to Soil (Optional)
Spider plants can thrive in water indefinitely, but some gardeners prefer to move them to soil.
Transferring your spider plant to soil can provide more nutrients and stability for long-term growth. The process is straightforward but requires careful timing and preparation.
When to Transfer
You’ll know it’s time to transfer your spider plant when the roots are 2-3 inches long. This usually happens after 4-6 weeks of water propagation.
Strong, healthy roots are crucial for a successful transition. Look for white or light-colored roots with small hair-like structures.
Wait until spring or early summer to transfer your plant. These seasons offer ideal growing conditions.
Avoid transferring during winter when the plant is dormant. If you notice any brown or mushy roots, trim them off before planting.
The Transplanting Process
Start by filling a pot with well-draining potting mix – my preferred one for spider plants is below.
Miracle-Gro Houseplant Potting Mix
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The best soil for Spider Plants, designed to keep them thriving indoors. With excellent drainage and key nutrients, it promotes strong roots and vibrant, arching leaves.
Choose a container slightly larger than the root system. Make a hole in the center of the soil big enough for the roots.
Gently remove the plant from water, being careful not to damage the delicate roots. Place the plant in the prepared hole, spreading the roots out. Cover with soil, pressing lightly to remove air pockets.
Water thoroughly after planting. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks.
Place the pot in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight at first – your plant needs time to adjust to its new home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Spider plants can thrive in water with proper care and nutrients. They’re versatile and adaptable, making them popular for hydroponic growing.
Here are some common questions about growing spider plants in water.
How long can spider plants thrive when grown exclusively in water?
Spider plants can live for years in water with the right care. You’ll need to change the water regularly and add liquid fertilizer every few weeks. Make sure the container allows roots to spread out and get oxygen.
Watch for signs of nutrient deficiency like yellowing leaves, and adjust your care as needed.
What is the correct way to propagate spider plant babies in water?
To propagate spider plant babies in water, cut the plantlet from the mother plant with clean scissors. Place the baby in a jar of clean water, making sure the root base is submerged.
Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. In 2-3 weeks, you’ll see new roots growing. Once roots are a few inches long, you can plant it in soil or keep it in water.
Can spider plants survive if completely submerged?
Spider plants can’t survive fully submerged for long periods. Their leaves need air to photosynthesize and breathe. If you submerge a spider plant, it will likely start to rot within days. Keep the roots in water but let the leaves stay above the surface for best results.
Can I keep a spider plant in water with fish?
It’s not recommended to keep spider plants in water with fish. Fish waste can harm the plant, and any fertilizers you add for the plant might hurt the fish.
The plant’s roots could also tangle with fish or clog filters. It’s best to keep your spider plants and fish in separate containers for the health of both.