Spider plants are known for being easy to propagate and look after. But it doesn’t always go to plan, and it can be frustrating when they stop producing babies (also known as spiderettes).
I’ve seen this issue many times over my years of gardening and it usually comes down to a few key factors. So if you’re unsure why or struggling to get babies from your spider plant check out these likely reasons as well as how to encourage new growth.
9 Reasons Your Spider Plant Isn’t Producing Babies (And What to Do)
1. Insufficient Light
Spider plants need bright, indirect light to thrive and produce babies. Without enough light the plant may become stressed and stop producing. You want to avoid direct sunlight though as it can scorch the leaves. So instead try placing your spider plant near a window where it gets plenty of filtered light.
Solution:
- Move your spider plant to a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of indirect sunlight a day.
- Consider using grow lights if natural light is limited in your space or house.
2. Over or Underwatering
Watering issues are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to unhappy spider plants. If you’re overwatering the roots can rot which will obviously stop the plant from thriving. And so no spiderettes! But on the other hand underwatering can stress the plant and stunt its growth too, also affecting baby production.
Solution:
- Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Make sure you’re using well draining soil and that the pot has proper drainage.
3. Lack of Nutrients
Spider plants can stop growing babies if they lack the proper nutrients. If your plant has been in the same soil for a long time it may have used up all the resources there.
Spider plants don’t need a lot of fertilizer but they do benefit from regular feeding during their active growing seasons.
Solution:
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month in spring and summer. Avoid over fertilizing as this can stress the plant.
- Repot your spider plant if it’s been in the same soil for over two years as this will help refresh the levels of nutrients.
4. Too Low Humidity
Spider plants come from tropical environments where humidity levels are high. Low humidity can stop them from flowering which in turn stops the production of spiderette babies. Dry air can also lead to brown leaf tips which is another sign your plant isn’t happy.
Solution:
- Place your plant near a humidifier or try grouping it with other plants to create a more humid microenvironment.
- Misting the plant or placing it on a tray of pebbles and water can also help.
5. The Pot is Too Large
Spider plants like to be a little root bound. If your plant has too much room to stretch its roots it may focus all its energy on growing its root system rather than producing babies.
Solution:
- Use a pot that’s just slightly larger than the root ball. A snug fit will encourage the plant to produce offshoots.
- Avoid repotting unless absolutely necessary. Once the plant becomes root bound it is much more likely to flower and produce babies.
6. Temperature Isn’t Right
Temperature plays a really important role in the growth cycle of your spider plant. Ideally they thrive in temperatures between 65°F to 75°F during the day and slightly cooler at night. Extremely hot or cold temperatures can mess with their growth and lead to a lack of babies.
Solution:
- Maintain a stable temperature, avoiding drafts or direct exposure to heaters.
- If possible then place your spider plant outdoors in a shaded area during warmer months where it can benefit from natural conditions.
7. Plant Maturity
Young spider plants may need time to mature before they start producing babies. It typically takes about one to two years for a spider plant to reach the point where it can start creating offshoots.
Solution:
- Be patient. If your plant is young give it time to grow and develop.
- Focus on keeping the plant healthy in the meantime by providing the right light, water and nutrients. Basically follow all the tips in this guide!
8. Pests or Disease
Pests like mealybugs and aphids or diseases like root rot can prevent your spider plant from producing babies. These will weaken the plant and make it more difficult for it to reproduce and create babies.
Solution:
- Regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests or disease.
- If you find any use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the problem.
9. Seasonal Changes
Spider plants naturally produce more babies during their peak growing season – which is spring and summer. If you’re trying to encourage baby production in the fall or winter you will have to accept it might not happen. This is simply because the plant is not in its active growth phase.
Solution:
- Adjust your expectations based on the season. While you can encourage growth by maintaining the right indoor conditions be aware that spider plants are more likely to produce babies during the warmer months.
Quick Troubleshooting Guide
| Issue | Symptoms | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Insufficient Light | Leggy growth, no babies | Move to a brighter location with indirect light |
| Overwatering | Wilting, yellow leaves | Water less frequently, ensure proper drainage |
| Underwatering | Dry, brown leaf tips | Increase watering frequency but avoid waterlogging |
| Low Humidity | Brown leaf tips, slow growth | Increase humidity by misting or using a humidifier |
| Nutrient Deficiency | Stunted growth, no new leaves | Fertilize monthly during spring and summer |
| Pot Too Large | No babies, large root system | Use a smaller, snug pot |
If you address all these common issues then your spider plant will be back to producing babies in no time. Spider plants are resilient and with a little attention you can enjoy plenty of new spiderettes to propagate and share.
So keep these tips handy and you’ll have a nursery full of spider babies before you know it!
