Can a Spider Plant Grow in Water?

Spider plants are a popular indoor plant for their easy-to-grow nature, resilient growth, and air purifying properties. Many people wonder if spider plants can grow in water, as it's a popular way of taking care of other indoor plants, such as pothos and philodendrons. In this article, we’ll explore the potential of growing spider plants exclusively in water, and the pros and cons of this method.

What are spider plants?

Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are a species of flowering perennial herb native to tropical and southern Africa. They are named for their spider-like appearance, with long, slender leaves that grow from a central rosette and arch gracefully, producing small greenish-white flowers and eventually small plantlets, or “spiderettes.”

Can spider plants grow in water?

While spider plants can be grown in water, it’s important to note that they are not hydroponic plants. Hydroponic plants are grown exclusively in water, while spider plants are typically grown in soil, with water as a supplement. However, spider plants can be grown in water under certain conditions, and they can be a great way to propagate and extend the life of a spider plant.

How to grow spider plants in water

To grow spider plants in water, you'll need a healthy spider plant, a container, and fresh water. Start by removing a spiderette or two from the parent plant and placing them in the container. The container should be filled with fresh water, and the spiderette should be submerged in the water, with just the leaves and parts of the plant above the waterline.

Make sure to change the water every ten days or so to keep it fresh, and clean the container to prevent mold and bacteria growth. You can also add a few drops of liquid fertilizer to the water to provide the plant with some nutrients.

Pros and Cons of Growing Spider Plants in Water

Pros:

Faster growth: Growing spider plants in water can result in faster growth and more robust spiderettes than when grown in soil.

No soil mess: Growing spider plants in water is mess-free and can be a great option for people who don't want to deal with soil and maintenance.

Easy to propagate: Growing spider plants in water is an easy way to propagate spiderettes and extend the life of your spider plant.

Cons:

No support: Spider plants grown in water can become top-heavy, making them unstable and prone to tipping over.

No nutrients: While adding fertilizer can help, water lacks the necessary nutrients that soil offers, which can lead to stunted plant growth.

Prone to bacteria growth: When growing spider plants in water, stagnant water can lead to bacterial and fungal growth, leading to root rot.

In conclusion

While growing spider plants in water can be a great way to propagate and extend the life of your spider plant, it's important to note that this method has its limitations. Growing spider plants in water can be an easy and mess-free alternative to soil, but it requires close vigilance and regular maintenance to ensure that the plant receives the nutrients it needs and to prevent bacterial and fungal growth from becoming an issue.