Cleome (Spider Flower) Maintenance: Watering, Feeding, Staking, and Seed Control

Overview

Cleome (spider flower) is a tropical annual grown worldwide as an ornamental. Delicate blooms summer–fall in white, yellow, pink, violet. Easy care; attracts bees and butterflies.

Step 1: Planting Time & Spacing

Fall or early spring (cool soil) for seeds. Spring after frost for seedlings. 1–2 ft apart. Water thoroughly.

Step 2: Water Wisely

Dry areas: weekly. Cool climates: every 10 days if <1 in. rain. Very drought‑tolerant.

Step 3: Fertilize Moderately

Balanced 10‑10‑10 every 2 months spring–summer. Monthly if soil very poor. Tolerates lean soil; fertilizer boosts blooms.

Step 4: Stake Early Summer

Leggy bases vulnerable to storms. Tie to tall stakes in 2–3 places with garden twine.

Step 5: Manage Self‑Seeding

Remove seedpods post‑bloom to prevent volunteers. Or let freeze, start fresh next spring, or allow natural reseeding.