Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are popular houseplants known for their arching foliage and their habit of producing small, dangling offspring. These miniature plants, often called “plantlets” or “spiderettes,” emerge on long stems, known as stolons, from the mother plant. This reproductive process is characteristic of healthy spider plants. The appearance of these plantlets often prompts owners to consider whether to remove them.
Reasons to Remove Spider Plant Babies
Removing spider plant plantlets offers several advantages, related to propagation, mother plant health, and aesthetics. Detaching them allows for creating new plants, expanding a collection or providing gifts. This method is straightforward.
Leaving numerous plantlets attached can impact the mother plant’s vigor. Each plantlet draws resources from the parent plant. This energy drain can reduce the mother plant’s growth and vigor.
Removing the plantlets allows the mother plant to redirect its energy towards its own foliage and root system, promoting a denser and healthier appearance. Some individuals prefer a tidier plant display without the cascading plantlets. Removal also makes the plant easier to manage.
How to Remove Spider Plant Babies
Removing spider plant plantlets is a simple process. Begin by using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to ensure a precise cut. Sterilize tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent pathogen transfer.
Locate the stolon connecting the plantlet to the mother plant. Make a cut on the stolon approximately two to three inches from the base of the plantlet, ensuring the plantlet itself remains undamaged. Plantlets are ready for removal once they have developed small aerial roots or have grown to at least five leaves. This indicates maturity for independent establishment.
What to Do With Spider Plant Babies After Removal
Once removed, spider plant plantlets can be rooted for new plants. Water propagation is a common method: place the plantlet in water, submerging only the base and nascent roots. Change water every few days. Roots develop within seven to ten days, though these water-grown roots may be more fragile and require acclimation for soil transfer.
Alternatively, plantlets can be rooted directly in soil for stronger root systems. Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes. Create a small hole, gently insert the plantlet, covering its base with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until new growth indicates successful rooting.
This method develops roots adapted to soil from the outset. Once rooted, new plants thrive in bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. New plants can expand a collection, be shared, or composted.
When to Leave Spider Plant Babies Attached
While removing plantlets offers several benefits, leaving them attached is acceptable or preferred. Some gardeners appreciate the natural aesthetic of a spider plant with cascading plantlets. This creates a fuller appearance.
If propagation is not desired, removal is unnecessary. The mother plant can support its offspring without significant detriment, with adequate water and nutrients. A healthy, robust mother plant, especially if regularly watered and fertilized, can sustain multiple plantlets without showing signs of stress. Leaving the plantlets attached also allows them to continue drawing nutrients from the mother plant until they are larger and more developed, especially if roots haven’t formed.