Spider plants are pretty much the MVPs of the houseplant world. Not only do they look great, but they’re also total rockstars at filtering toxins out of your indoor air. Best of all? They’re incredibly low-maintenance. If you’re looking for a plant that’s easy to repot, this is the one for you.
How to Get the Job Done
When it’s time to move your spider plant to a new home, always go a size up. These plants are famous for their non-stop growth—they only really take a break when temperatures drop below 50°F. Because of that, their roots need plenty of elbow room. Pro tip: Place some broken pottery shards or small stones at the bottom of the pot before adding soil. This creates drainage, prevents soggy roots, and can literally be a lifesaver for your plant.
Once your drainage layer is set, place the plant in the pot and fill it in with fresh potting soil. Press the soil down firmly and give it a good, long drink of water. This helps the soil settle in around the roots. Don’t be shy with the watering can right after repotting; it’s the one time they actually appreciate a little extra moisture.
How Often Should You Repot?
Spider plants are pretty chill and don’t ask for much. Usually, repotting them once a year is plenty. They aren’t too picky about *when* you do it, either. If you’re taking good care of your plant, it’s going to grow like crazy. A clear sign that it’s time for a bigger pot is when you start seeing roots poking out above the soil line.
Propagating by Division
Many gardeners use repotting time as an opportunity to get “free” plants through division. Just gently untangle the root ball as much as possible and carefully pull the plant apart in the middle. You should be able to do this easily by hand—just be gentle so you don’t snap the roots. Once you’ve got two sections, plant them in their own separate pots. While you can grow them from seeds, most people find it way easier to use spiderettes (runners) or division.
Repotting Your Spider Plant: The Essentials
- Generally, once a year is the sweet spot for repotting.
- Move it to a new pot as soon as you see roots popping up through the soil.
- Always choose a larger pot to give those fast-growing roots space.
- Use stones or pottery shards at the bottom for better drainage.
- Give it a thorough watering immediately after repotting.
- Repotting is the perfect time to propagate your plant by dividing it.
