Spider plants are one of the most popular and one of the easiest plants to care for. They are excellent in hanging baskets but may be grown in pots on a table. Mature plants will soon form runners…or baby plantlets. They form graceful arching shoots and hang down the side of the pot-hence the name spider plant. Spider plants are also known for their ability to absorb dangerous chemicals from the air.

Spider Plants prefer a well-lit bright location with indirect sun. If you wish to hang it outside for the summer, find a shady spot. Full sun, inside or outside, can burn the foliage. Water your plant liberally during the growing season. Allow the plant to dry slightly between waterings in the winter. Repot in spring or summer if the plant is literally bursting its pot.

Although Spider Plants are easy to care for and will grow large and lush under the care of the blackest of thumbs, few can avoid the brown tips that are common to the leaves of this plant. The most common cause is high concentrations of chlorine and fluoride in the tap water. This can be avoided by watering with rain or distilled water. Brown tips can also be caused by under fertilizing or low humidity. Brown tips may be trimmed off with sharp scissors.