Chlorophytum comosum, commonly known as the spider plant, is a popular houseplant recognized for its arching foliage and its ability to produce numerous small offsets, or plantlets, often called “spiderettes.” These plantlets are a natural mechanism for propagation, allowing new, genetically identical plants to be created. Rooting them in water is a reliable and visually rewarding method that allows you to observe the entire root development process before planting them in soil. This guide details the specific steps for successfully using the water-rooting technique.
Preparing the Plantlet for Rooting
Begin by selecting a mature plantlet from the mother plant’s long, arching stem, known as a stolon. A plantlet is ready for separation when it has developed a small tuft of leaves and visible, small, bumpy aerial root nubs at its base. Using clean, sanitized shears or scissors is important to prevent the transfer of pathogens to the new cutting.
Make a precise cut on the stolon right where it meets the base of the plantlet, ensuring no long, trailing stem remains attached. If any bottom leaves would be submerged in water, gently trim them away. Removing this foliage prevents rotting, which can contaminate the rooting environment.
Gather a clean glass vessel and fresh water. Spider plants are sensitive to chemicals like fluoride found in some tap water. Use distilled, filtered water, or tap water left uncovered for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate. The clear vessel allows for easy monitoring of the developing roots.
The Water Rooting Process
Carefully place the prepared plantlet into the water-filled vessel, ensuring that only the base where the root nubs are located is submerged. The bulk of the foliage must remain above the waterline, as submerged leaves will begin to rot. Using a small, narrow-necked container, such as a shot glass, can help hold the plantlet securely in position.
Place the propagation vessel in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight, such as near an east or west-facing window, as this encourages faster root growth. Maintaining a warm room temperature (65°F to 75°F) provides optimal conditions for root initiation. Avoid placing the cutting in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Routine maintenance is necessary to keep the rooting environment healthy and oxygenated. Change the water completely every three to five days to prevent stagnation, which depletes oxygen and encourages anaerobic bacteria. Fresh water replenishes the oxygen supply necessary for the new roots to grow.
Small, white roots should begin emerging from the base of the plantlet within the first one to two weeks. Allow the roots to continue growing for approximately four to six weeks, or until they reach a length of one to two inches. This established root mass is necessary to support the plant when it transitions to soil.
Transitioning the Rooted Plant to Soil
The rooted plantlet is ready for potting once the roots reach one to two inches, creating a substantial system capable of absorbing nutrients. Use a small pot (e.g., a four-inch container) with adequate drainage holes, and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. A standard indoor mix amended with perlite or coco coir works well to ensure aeration.
When planting, create a small depression in the soil and carefully settle the water roots into it. Ensure the base of the plantlet’s foliage sits right at the soil line; planting too deeply can lead to stem rot. Gently firm the soil around the roots for stability without compressing it excessively.
Water the newly potted plant thoroughly immediately after planting until water drains from the bottom, settling the soil around the roots. The roots developed in water are accustomed to constant moisture. For the first two weeks, keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, to reduce the shock of moving to a soil environment.
After this initial acclimation period, gradually allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. This helps the new plant transition to a typical spider plant care schedule. This reduction in moisture encourages the development of stronger, soil-adapted roots. Place the potted plant back in a location with bright, indirect light.