Can I Keep My Spider Plant in Water?

If you are a fan of indoor plants, you must already know about the spider plant. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants a low-care houseplant that can thrive even in low-light conditions. But have you ever wondered if spider plants can grow in water alone? In this article, we will tell you all about keeping spider plants in water and the things you should keep in mind while doing so.

Why Choose Water Cultivation for Spider Plants?

Growing spider plants in water is a popular choice of indoor gardening enthusiasts for several reasons. Firstly, it's incredibly effortless and cost-effective. You don't need to buy potting soil or any expensive planters. Just get a glass container and fill it up with clean water, and you're good to go. Moreover, growing spider plants in water allows you to observe the roots' growth, making it an excellent educational activity for kids. Lastly, the water method can serve as a temporary solution when your spider plant is root-bound, and you don't have space to transplant it into a bigger pot.

How to Grow Spider Plants in Water

Growing spider plants in water is relatively simple, and requires only a few steps.

Choose a container – ideally, use a clear glass or plastic jar, vase or bottle that can hold enough water for the roots to grow.

Add water – fill up the container with water up to 1-2 inches of the rim. Use room temperature water and replace it every two weeks because it can turn murky or stagnant, leading to root rot.

Prepare the plant – choose a healthy spider plant that has no sign of disease or pests. Cut off one of its healthy young shoots, and remove any leaves that might come in contact with the water. Also, place the stem under running water and clean the dirt and debris from the stem and roots.

Place the plant – place the stem of the spider plant into the container, ensuring that the leaves don't touch the water. Use marbles, pebbles, or stones to support the stem if necessary.

Wait and observe – spider plants in water can take around two to three weeks to root. Place the container in a warm, bright, and indirect sunlight spot, ideally near a window. Observe the plant daily and top up the water as needed. Once the roots start to grow, change the water and continue the same process.

Can Spider Plants Grow Indefinitely in Water?

No, spider plants cannot grow indefinitely in water alone because they still need nutrients to grow healthy and produce foliage. Water contains some minerals, but it's not enough to support the spider plant's growth, and over time, the plant may suffer from malnutrition. Therefore, it's essential to provide spider plants with supplementary fertilizers. You can add water-soluble fertilizers to the water every four to six months or until the roots outgrow the container. However, if you're looking for a permanent solution, you should eventually plant spider plants in soil.

In Conclusion

Growing spider plants in water is a fun, easy, and cost-effective way to decorate your home with indoor plants. With proper care and maintenance, your spider plant can grow healthy roots and foliage in a glass container. Keep in mind that spider plants still need nutrients, so it's crucial to provide them with supplementary fertilizers or eventually plant them in soil. So, if you're short on space, want an educational activity, or simply enjoy the aesthetics, growing spider plants in water can be a rewarding hobby!