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As far as low-maintenance plants go, spider plants are one of the easiest houseplants to grow.
And with their long, lush green and white-striped foliage, spider plants are an instant way to add brightness and visual interest to any space. Which is why it can be alarming to see brown leaf tips taking over a once vibrant plant.
If you’re wondering why your spider plant leaves are turning brown, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s dying or on its way out. Knowing the causes of brown leaves —and preventing them — is key to successfully reviving your plant and restoring its lush and healthy foliage.
So if you want to keep a happy houseplant, read on to find out what’s causing the brown leaves, and exactly how to fix it.
1. Not enough water
A common reason for brown leaf tips is that the spider plant is not getting enough water and is drying out. Generally, give your spider plant a thorough watering once a week, and only when the top 1-2 inches of the soil are dry. However, if you live in warmer climates or experience a heatwave, you’ll need to water more often.
Plus, avoid letting plants remain in standing water, such as in saucers or decorative pots. Always empty the saucers after watering to prevent the roots from being submerged.
Bear in mind that although spider plants thrive in moist (and not soggy) soil, avoid overwatering as this can result in root rot. Additionally, it’s recommended to water in the morning, as it allows the soil to dry during the day without getting waterlogged.
2. Your plant has got ‘chilly’
Do you have your spider plant on a windowsill, hanging by a door or even near a vent? You might be putting your spider plant in the wrong place. Sudden drops in temperatures or lighting conditions can put stress on your spider plant, causing brown or crispy leaf tips.
To prevent browning leaves, keep your spider plant away from direct sunlight and maintain a consistent, moderate temperature. In addition, be sure to protect it from cold drafts, which can shock the plant, and direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.Do you have your spider plant near a windowsill or vent? You might be putting your spider plant in the wrong place. Sudden drops in temperature or lighting conditions can put stress on your spider plant, causing brown or crispy leaf tips.
To prevent browning leaves, keep your spider plant away from direct sunlight and maintain a consistent, moderate temperature. In addition, be sure to protect it from cold drafts, which can shock the plant, and direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
3. Low humidity levels
Additionally, low humidity is often the cause of brown tips on spider plants, particularly during winter when indoor heating is cranked up.
Spider plants tend to thrive in a humid, tropical environment, so maintaining a humidity level of at least 50% to 60% is recommended. The best way to combat low humidity for your spider plant is to try a few things.
First, increase moisture directly by regularly misting the plant, or move the spider plant to a naturally more humid area, such as a bathroom or kitchen. In addition, you can invest in a plant humidifier to add or boost the surrounding air moisture.
Also, remember to keep the plant away from drafty areas or air conditioning vents, as these can quickly dry out the air, reducing humidity levels.
4. Too much fertilizer
While we might think adding more fertilizer to spider plants will help them thrive, it can actually do the opposite. Overfertilizing causes salt build-up that is toxic to plants, often resulting in brown tips. Once you see this happening, stop fertilizing immediately, as you don’t want to cause more stress to your plant.
Be sure to follow the instructions on your plant’s label, and apply an all-purpose granular or water-soluble fertilizer. What's more, always monitor your plant's growth and adjust the fertilizer amount as needed.
Plus, is your spider plant producing offshoots? May is the perfect time to create this stunning 5-minute centerpiece.
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