How to Pot a Spider Plant

Spider plants are a popular houseplant choice due to their easy-to-grow nature and air purifying qualities. If you’re ready to repot your spider plant, or are starting from scratch, follow these steps to pot your spider plant successfully.

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot and Soil

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current pot that your spider plant is in. You’ll want to use a well-draining soil mix that includes peat moss, vermiculite or perlite, and sand or grit. This will ensure healthy root growth for your spider plant.

Step 2: Prepare the Pot

Before potting your spider plant, make sure the new pot has adequate drainage holes. Add a layer of gravel or broken pot pieces to the bottom of the pot to help with drainage. Fill the pot about a quarter of the way with soil before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Remove the Spider Plant from Its Current Pot

Gently remove the spider plant from its current pot, being careful not to damage the roots. You may need to loosen the soil around the plant by gently pulling at the base of the plant. Once the spider plant is out of its current pot, inspect the roots and remove any dead or brown ones.

Step 4: Place the Spider Plant in the New Pot

Place the spider plant in the new pot and fill in soil around the sides of the plant, gently pressing down to ensure the plant is secure. Make sure the plant is at the same depth as in its previous pot.

Step 5: Water and Add Fertilizer as Needed

Water the spider plant immediately after potting, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not saturated. Allow the plant to drain excess water. You can add fertilizer at this point if desired, using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing too often, which can lead to burned or damaged leaves.

Step 6: Care for Your Newly Potted Spider Plant

Place the newly potted spider plant in a location with bright, indirect light, away from drafts or direct sunlight. Spider plants prefer temperatures between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Check the soil regularly and water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Spider plants don’t require frequent repotting and can stay in their current pots for a few years before needing to be upgraded to a larger pot.

Now that you know how to pot a spider plant, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of this low-maintenance houseplant in your home or office. Follow these steps, and your spider plant will thrive in its new pot for years to come.