How do I propagate my spider plant

How do you propagate a spider plant?

The spider plant is a real star among houseplants. Not only is it an easy plant to look after, it is also great fun to propagate. Whether you have green fingers or not, this plant has something to offer everyone. Want to know the best way to propagate your spider plant? Read on!

What do you need to propagate a spider plant?

Propagating a spider plant is not difficult at all, but there are a few things you need to make it a success:

1. A healthy spider plant - naturally!

2. A sharp knife or scissors - so you do not damage the plant.

3. Lukewarm water - to stand your cutting in.

4. A clear glass or small pot - so you can watch the roots grow.

Propagating your spider plant: step by step

Follow this simple plan and your spider plant will be making its own little cuttings in no time!

1. Choose the right baby plant

Take a good look at the spider plant and find a healthy little plant on one of the stems. Do not pick one that is too small, because those hold few nutrients and have less chance of surviving.

2. Cut the baby plant off

Cut off the baby plant you have chosen, taking a small piece of the stem with it. That helps your cutting form roots more quickly.

3. Stand the cutting in water

Put the cutting in a glass of lukewarm water. Make sure the leaves stay above the water; too much leaf in the water can start to rot, and we do not want that! A clear glass is handy, because then you can see whether roots are starting to grow.

Caring for your spider plant cutting

Once the cutting has stood in water for a few weeks, you will see roots starting to grow. As soon as the roots are around 3 to 4 centimetres long, you can move the cutting into a pot with potting soil. Keep the soil moist, but not too wet.

Tip: Want to keep your cutting entirely in water? Then your spider plant will happily carry on growing in water. Just pick a nice glass or pot of water and you have yourself a water spider plant.

An alternative method: propagating a spider plant by division

There is another way to multiply your spider plant: by dividing it. This technique is quicker, but a little more drastic for the plant. Instead of taking a cutting, you simply split the large spider plant in two.

Please note: only divide the plant if it is strong and healthy. Take the spider plant out of its pot and carefully pull the root ball apart in the middle. Take care not to break the leaves. Put both halves into separate pots and there you have it, two spider plants!

Time to get going!

Propagating is an easy, enjoyable way to expand your spider plant collection, whether you go for the water method or divide the plant. Before you know it you will have a few new spider plants to give to friends or to enjoy at home yourself. So what are you waiting for? Grab your scissors and get propagating!