Spider Plant Care: How to Stop Brown Tips and Grow "Babies"
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If you’re looking for a plant that’s as playful as it is tough, the Spider Plant is the one. With its arching, striped leaves and the way it sends out tiny "plantlets" (or babies) on long stems, it’s the ultimate retro-cool addition to any bathroom.
In our guide to 7 "Unkillable" Plants That Thrive in Your Windowless Bathroom, I recommended the Spider Plant because it absolutely loves humidity. But, as a few of you have noticed on my Pinterest lately, it has one specific quirk: it’s the "canary in the coal mine" for your bathroom's airflow.
Between you and me, if your Spider Plant is struggling, it’s usually not because you’re a bad gardener—it’s just the plant’s way of asking for a little more "breathing room."
1. The Mystery of the Brown Tips (Ventilation)
This is the number one question I get: "Why are the tips of my spider plant turning brown and crispy?"
While most people think they’ve forgotten to water it, the truth is usually about Airflow and Minerals.
The Airflow Secret: In a stuffy bathroom, moisture and salts from your water can get trapped in the tips of the leaves. If your bathroom fan isn't running long enough (see our guide on Bathroom Fan Placement!), the plant can't "exhale" properly.
The "Tap Water" Trick: Spider plants can be sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water. If you see brown tips, try using filtered water or just let a jug of tap water sit out overnight before using it. This lets the minerals settle and keeps those tips green.
2. Lighting: The "Goldilocks" Zone
Spider plants are incredibly adaptable. They’ll survive in low light, but if you want them to produce those adorable "spiderettes" (the babies), they need a bit of bright, indirect light.
The Low-Light Look: In a darker bathroom, the leaves will stay a solid, dark green.
The "Baby" Boost: If you want it to grow babies, move it closer to a light source. Just be careful with direct sun, much like our Peace Lily, too much direct heat can bleach the stripes right out of the leaves.
3. The "Free Plants" Perk (Propagation)
The best part of owning a Spider Plant? It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Once the plant is mature, it will send out long runners with tiny white flowers, followed by mini versions of itself.
The Propagation Trick: Once the "babies" have small bumps or roots on the bottom, you can snip them off and put them in a small jar of water. Within a week or two, they’ll have full roots and be ready to pot up. It’s the easiest way to grow your [Zero-Waste Sanctuary] for free!
4. Why It’s a Bathroom Essential
Spider plants are world-class at removing carbon monoxide and xylene from the air. Since they look so good in hanging planters, they are perfect for small bathrooms where counter space is at a premium. They stay out of the way, clean your air, and add a lush, jungle feel without cluttering your vanity.
Conclusion
The Spider Plant is a tough, generous, and beautiful roommate. As long as you keep your bathroom fan running and give it a drink when the soil feels dry, it will reward you with years of growth and plenty of "babies" to share with your neighbors.
Ready to start your Spider Plant family?
If you want a healthy, variegated Spider Plant delivered to your door, this is a great, trusted source:
Tip: These look best in a hanging basket to give the babies room to dangle!
The Spider Plant Care Kit
The "Airflow" Essential: High-Efficiency Bathroom Exhaust Fan. If your plant's tips are brown, it might be time for a fan upgrade!
For Hanging High: Macramé Plant Hanger (2-Pack). The best way to display those dangling babies.
The "Mineral-Free" Waterer: Glass Water Filtration Pitcher. A simple way to remove the chlorine that causes brown tips.
The Propagation Jars: Amber Glass Propagation Vases. Perfect for rooting your spiderettes in style.