The ribbon plant (Chlorophytum comosum), also known as the spider plant, is a popular houseplant. It is cherished for its graceful, arching foliage and its tendency to produce numerous small plantlets, often called “spiderettes” or “babies.” Its adaptability and low maintenance requirements make it a favored choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. Its cascading form also makes it an excellent option for hanging baskets.
Ribbon Plant Care
Ribbon plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which encourages robust growth and the production of plantlets. Placing them near a window that receives filtered sunlight is ideal, as direct sun exposure can scorch their leaves. Conversely, insufficient light may result in less vigorous growth and fewer plantlets.
Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch. While these plants can tolerate some inconsistent watering due to their fleshy roots that store moisture, maintain a consistent watering schedule to prevent stress. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage. Using distilled water or rainwater is beneficial, as ribbon plants are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water, which may cause leaf tip burn.
A well-draining potting mix is suitable for ribbon plants, allowing excess water to escape and preventing waterlogging. A general-purpose potting soil or soilless medium works. These plants appreciate average humidity levels, though they are tolerant of drier indoor environments. If the air is particularly dry, occasional misting or placing the plant near a humidifier can help prevent brown leaf tips.
Fertilize during the active growing seasons of spring and summer, typically once or twice a month. A balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength is recommended to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to brown leaf tips and reduce plantlet production. During the cooler winter months, the plant’s growth slows, and fertilization should be reduced or stopped entirely.
Propagating Ribbon Plants
Propagating ribbon plants is done using the “spiderettes” or plantlets that dangle from the mature plant. These plantlets often develop small, root-like protrusions while still attached, making them ready for propagation. Root them in water or directly in soil.
For water propagation, snip a healthy spiderette from the parent plant, ensuring it has root nubs or small roots. Place the plantlet’s base into a glass of distilled or filtered water, ensuring only the bottom is submerged, not the foliage. Within a few weeks, roots should develop to 1 to 2 inches, at which point the plantlet is ready for potting.
Alternatively, spiderettes can be planted directly into a well-draining potting mix. You can snip the plantlet off first or, for a higher success rate, plant it while still attached to the mother plant. Create a small hole in the soil, place the plantlet’s base into it, and gently cover with soil, keeping it consistently moist until new growth appears. Once rooted, the connecting stem to the mother plant can be cut.
Common Problems with Ribbon Plants
Ribbon plants are generally robust, but common issues can arise, signaling a need to adjust care practices. Brown leaf tips are a frequent complaint, often caused by fluoride or chlorine in tap water, low humidity, or over-fertilization. Switching to distilled or rainwater and increasing humidity can help alleviate this issue.
Yellowing leaves can indicate several problems, including overwatering, underwatering, or too much direct sunlight. Inspect soil moisture and adjust watering frequency, ensuring the soil dries out slightly between waterings. Pale or yellow leaves can also point to a nutrient deficiency or pest infestation.
A lack of plantlets forming on a mature ribbon plant might be due to insufficient light, over-fertilization, or the plant not being mature enough. Ensuring the plant receives adequate indirect light and avoiding excessive fertilization can encourage the production of these “babies.” While generally pest-resistant, ribbon plants can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Regularly inspecting the plant and promptly addressing any infestations with appropriate treatments, such as rinsing the foliage or using horticultural oil, helps maintain plant health.