Spider Plant Care: Growing Airplane Plants for Clean Air and Easy Propagation

Spider plants (also called airplane plants) produce arching green-and-white striped leaves that reach 12–18 inches long. Young plants may produce tiny white flowers in summer. They're exceptionally easy to grow and look stunning in hanging baskets.

Planting

• Use a soil-based potting mix in bright to moderate indirect light; avoid hot direct sun.
• Maintain average room temperature and humidity.

Care

• During active growth, water occasionally; once established (within a year), water moderately.
• Spring and summer: keep soil evenly moist—don't let it dry out completely.
• Fertilize twice monthly in spring and summer, but avoid over-fertilization.

Pests & Diseases

• Prone to leaf tip burn from dry soil, salt buildup, or fluoride in tap water. Keep soil slightly moist and avoid fluoridated water.
• Brown discs on leaves can be gently scraped off with a fingernail every few days.

Recommended Varieties

Common varieties include the Ribbon Plant and Spider Ivy.

Tips & Trivia

Place spider plants on your desk to help reduce indoor air pollutants.