Chlorophytum comosum, commonly known as the spider plant, is a resilient and popular houseplant valued for its cascading foliage and ease of care. This South African native multiplies itself through the production of small plantlets, often called “spiderettes,” which grow on long, trailing stems called stolons. Propagating these offsets is a straightforward process that allows owners to easily expand their collection or share the plant.
Identifying and Harvesting Spiderettes
Successful propagation begins with selecting the right plantlets, as not all spiderettes are ready for separation from the mother plant. The most suitable candidates are those that have already started to form small, fleshy aerial roots and possess a rosette of at least four to five leaves. These physical characteristics indicate the plantlet has matured enough to survive independently and begin absorbing water and nutrients on its own.
To harvest the spiderette, you must sever the connecting stolon using a clean, sharp tool such as a pair of scissors or a knife. Making a clean cut prevents unnecessary damage to both the mother plant and the plantlet, which reduces the risk of introducing bacterial or fungal infections. It is important to cut the stolon as close to the base of the spiderette as possible, leaving a small nub of the stem attached.
Primary Rooting Techniques
Two primary methods exist for encouraging the development of a robust root system on the harvested spiderette: rooting in water and rooting directly in soil. Each technique has distinct advantages and disadvantages, making the choice dependent on the grower’s preference for visibility or root strength.
Water Rooting
Water propagation involves placing the base of the spiderette into a container of water, ensuring that only the root-forming area is submerged to prevent rot. This method provides a clear view of root development, which typically begins within seven to ten days. The water should be changed weekly to replenish oxygen and prevent stagnation; using filtered or distilled water is recommended, as spider plants are sensitive to chemicals like fluoride. However, roots developed in water are adapted to an aquatic environment and tend to be weaker, sometimes causing the plantlet to experience shock when transplanted into soil.
Soil Rooting
The alternative, and often more successful, method is to root the spiderette directly into a small pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. This technique produces a stronger, more vigorous root system that is already adapted to the soil environment, minimizing transplant shock later on. This can be done by simply inserting the base of the cut spiderette into the soil and keeping the medium consistently moist until roots establish.
A highly effective variation of soil rooting involves planting the spiderette while it is still attached to the mother plant via the stolon, a process known as layering. The plantlet is pinned or secured to the surface of a small, separate pot of soil, allowing it to continue receiving resources from the parent plant until its own root system is firmly established. Once new growth is visible and the plantlet is anchored, the connecting stolon can be cut, freeing the new plant.
Establishing the New Plant
For spiderettes rooted in water, move them to a permanent pot once the roots have reached approximately one to two inches in length. A small pot, typically four inches in diameter, is appropriate for a single plantlet and should be filled with a standard, well-draining houseplant potting mix.
When potting, gently arrange the roots in the new medium, ensuring the base of the plantlet sits level with the soil line, and lightly firm the soil around the roots for stability. Immediately after potting, water the plant thoroughly and place it in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. During the initial establishment phase, which can take several weeks, keep the soil moderately moist, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. As the plant shows signs of new growth, indicating the root system is established, you can gradually transition to the care routine of a mature spider plant.