Do Spider Plants Grow Under Water?

Spider plants, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, are beloved by indoor gardeners as they are known to purify the air, are easy to care for, and can grow in various conditions. But have you ever wondered if these plants can grow under water? Let’s dive in and find out!

What Conditions Do Spider Plants Need to Grow?

Before we can answer the question of whether spider plants grow under water, it's essential to understand what conditions they need to grow. Spider plants need well-draining soil and a somewhat moist environment, but they shouldn't remain waterlogged for long periods as this can rot the roots. They also require bright but indirect light and prefer temperatures between 60-75°F.

Can Spider Plants Survive Under Water?

While spider plants need a moist environment, they are not aquatic plants and cannot survive completely under water. If you submerge the plant entirely, the roots will suffocate without access to oxygen, and the plant will eventually die.

However, some gardeners experiment with growing spider plants in water as a method of propagation or to keep the plant's roots hydrated. In this case, only a small portion of the plant's roots should be submerged in water while the rest remain above the surface. It's crucial to ensure that the plant's roots don't remain submerged for too long or they will experience root rot.

How to Propagate Spider Plants in Water

If you are interested in propagating spider plants in water, follow these steps:

Cut several long runners from the plant, ensuring that each runner has several leaves and some healthy roots.

Fill a jar or vase with water, ensuring that the water covers the roots only and not the leaves.

Place the runners in the water-filled jar or vase, ensuring that the roots remain submerged.

Change the water every few days, ensuring that it remains fresh and clean.

Once the roots have grown to about two inches, transplant the runners into well-draining soil.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while spider plants cannot grow entirely under water, they can survive with a small portion of their roots submerged as a method of propagation or to keep the roots hydrated. However, it's crucial to ensure that the roots do not remain submerged for too long, or they will experience root rot. Always remember to provide spider plants with the right environment, including well-draining soil, indirect bright light, and temperatures between 60-75°F, to ensure they thrive.