Watering spider plants might seem straightforward, but getting it right is key to keeping this resilient plant happy and healthy. While they’re fairly forgiving, spider plants can suffer from overwatering or drying out too much.
So how often should you water – and what’s the best way to avoid common watering mistakes?
Let’s break down the essentials for keeping your spider plant properly hydrated.
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.
When to Water Your Spider Plant
Water your spider plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This usually means watering once a week in spring and summer, and less frequently in fall and winter. Don’t stick to a strict schedule – instead, check the soil regularly.
Factors that go into caring for your spider plant like humidity, temperature, and light can affect how quickly the soil dries out. In warmer, brighter conditions, you might need to water more often. During cooler months or in low light, the plant will use less water.
Always use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Empty the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water.
Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering
Overwatering is a common issue with spider plants. If you notice yellowing leaves, especially at the base of the plant, you’re likely giving too much water. The soil may also smell musty or feel consistently wet.
Other signs of overwatering include:
- Brown, soft spots on leaves
- Drooping or wilting despite wet soil
- Root rot (roots appear brown and mushy)
Underwatering, while less common, can also harm your spider plant. Look out for:
- Crisp, brown leaf tips on your spider plant
- Curling leaves
- Slow growth
- Dry, crumbly soil
If you spot these signs, adjust your watering habits. For overwatering, let the soil dry out more between waterings.
For underwatering, increase frequency or amount of water slightly. Your spider plant will bounce back quickly with proper care.
FYI: If you’re growing your spider plant in water, some of these can also appear as signs there’s a problem – but will have to be dealt with differently. Check out the article at that link for how to address these in that case.
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How to Water a Spider Plant
You’ll want to water your spider plant thoroughly, but not too often. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. This usually means watering once a week, but adjust based on your home’s conditions.
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the roots get enough moisture. Don’t let the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
During winter, reduce watering frequency. The plant grows slower in cooler months and needs less moisture.
Always check the soil before watering – if it’s still damp, wait another day or two.
Best Practices for Water Type and Temperature
Room temperature water is best for your spider plant. Cold water can shock the roots, while hot water might damage them. If you use tap water, let it sit out overnight to allow chlorine to evaporate.
Filtered or rainwater are great choices for spider plants. They’re free from chemicals that can build up in the soil over time. If your tap water is hard, consider using distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
Avoid using softened water, as it often contains high levels of sodium. This can harm your plant’s roots and affect its growth. If you’re unsure about your water quality, a simple solution is to use bottled spring water.
Seasonal Watering Variations
Spider plants require different watering routines throughout the year. Their water needs change with temperature and daylight fluctuations. Adjusting your watering habits ensures optimal growth and health for your spider plant.
Adjusting Watering for Summer and Winter
In summer, water your spider plant more frequently. The warmer temperatures and increased daylight cause faster evaporation and growth. Check the soil every 3-4 days and water when the top inch feels dry.
During winter, reduce watering. The plant’s growth slows down, and it needs less moisture. Water every 1-2 weeks, or when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant’s roots. In both seasons, ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.
Humidity and Its Impact
Spider plants thrive in moderate humidity levels. In dry indoor environments, especially during winter, you might need to increase humidity. Mist the leaves occasionally or place a humidity tray nearby.
High humidity can reduce the plant’s water needs. This means that if you live in a humid climate, you may not need to water as often.
Watch for signs of overwatering, like yellowing leaves or soggy soil. In fact, for optimal results, use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
Aim for 40-60% relative humidity. If levels drop below this range, consider using a small humidifier near your spider plant.
Potting and Drainage Considerations
Spider plants thrive in well-draining soil (my favorite one is below!) and pots with adequate drainage holes. Choose a container that’s 1-2 inches larger than the current pot when repotting. If you don’t buy a pre-made one, you can also mix regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.
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.
Terracotta pots are an excellent choice for spider plants. They allow excess moisture to evaporate through their porous walls, reducing the risk of root rot.
Plastic pots can also work well, but make sure they have plenty of drainage holes. Otherwise, this material doesn’t tend to allow moisture to escape as well as terracotta does, so you’ll likely have to water less frequently.
I know, that probably sounds great, but there’s also an increased risk of root rot with plastic pots – so buyer beware.
When potting your spider plant, add a layer of small stones or broken pottery at the bottom of the container. This helps prevent soil from clogging the drainage holes and ensures proper water flow.
Don’t forget to place a saucer under your pot to catch excess water. Empty it regularly to prevent your plant from sitting in standing water, which can lead to root problems.
Consider using a self-watering pot if you’re prone to forgetting to water your plants. These containers have a reservoir that slowly releases water to the soil, helping maintain consistent moisture levels.
Remember to repot your spider plant every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. This gives the roots fresh soil and more space to grow, promoting a healthier plant overall.
Troubleshooting Common Watering Issues
Spider plants can develop watering-related problems that affect their leaves. These issues often have simple solutions once you identify the cause.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellow leaves on your spider plant usually signal overwatering. Check the soil moisture before watering. If it’s still damp, wait a day or two. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling.
Adjust your watering schedule based on the season. Spider plants need less water in winter. Try letting the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. This helps prevent root rot and yellowing.
If the problem persists, you might need to repot your plant. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix. Remove any rotted roots before replanting. Water less frequently after repotting to help the plant recover.
Brown Tip Remedies
Brown tips on spider plant leaves often result from underwatering or low humidity. Water your plant more consistently, but don’t overdo it. Aim to keep the soil lightly moist, not soggy.
Boost humidity around your plant. Mist the leaves regularly or place a humidity tray nearby. Group plants together to create a more humid microclimate. Avoid putting your spider plant near heating vents or air conditioners.
Check for mineral buildup in the soil. Use filtered water or let tap water sit out overnight before using it. This helps reduce chlorine and fluoride that can cause brown tips. Flush the soil every few months to remove salt buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Spider plants are generally low-maintenance, but proper watering is key to their health. Let’s address some common questions about watering these popular houseplants.
How often should I water a spider plant?
You’ll want to water your spider plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually means watering once a week in spring and summer, and less often in fall and winter. Check the soil moisture with your finger before watering.
If it’s still damp, wait a day or two. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s better to underwater slightly than to give too much water.
Should I water my spider plant from the top or bottom?
Watering from the top is typically best for spider plants. Pour water slowly over the soil surface until it starts to drain from the bottom holes. This method ensures even moisture distribution and helps flush out excess salts.
Bottom watering can work too, but it’s less effective at removing mineral buildup from fertilizers.
Can I cut off the brown tips on a spider plant?
Yes, you can trim off brown tips from your spider plant’s leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut at an angle that mimics the leaf’s natural shape. Only remove the brown part, leaving the green portion intact.
Brown tips are often caused by tap water minerals, so consider using filtered water if you notice this issue frequently.