Spider plants are one of the most popular houseplants in the world. They grow well both inside and outside, are easy to care for, and have a natural air purifying effect.
Spider plants can be grown in pots or directly in the ground, but there are some factors to consider before planting one outside your home.
In this guide, we will go over all you need to know about how to grow spider plants outside so that they thrive for years!
What Are Spider Plants?
Spider plants are a species of fruitless plants that belong to the Chlorophytum family. Their botanical name is Chlorophytum Comosum, but they are also known as airplane plants or spider ivy. The latter nickname comes from the type of leaves that these plants have.
They are extremely resilient indoor plants, not requiring extensive care throughout their life. They are long and narrow, which resemble airplane wings, giving the plant its common name – spider plant.
Can Spider Plants Live Outside?
Spider plants can live outside in almost every climate. However, they cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. In colder areas, they should be grown in pots and brought inside during winter. When planting in the ground, they should be in a spot that receives full sun all year-round.
What Outdoor Climates Do Spider Plants Thrive In?
Spider plants can grow in many outdoor climates, but they do best in warm and sunny areas, such as their native area of South Africa. You can keep the plant alive outdoors in zones 9-10, but you will have to bring it inside during winter.
If you live in zone 8 or below, grow spider plants indoors and only place them outside during the summer months.
What Outdoor Soil Type is Best for a Spider Plant?
The perfect soil to place your spider plant outdoors is one that drains well. A sandy or gravelly soil will allow the water to quickly drain away and prevent the plant’s roots from rotting. If you don’t have sandy or gravelly soil available, you can mix some perlite or sand into your regular soil.
How to Grow a Spider Plants Outdoors in Pots?
If you want to grow a spider plant outdoors in a pot, choose a pot at least 12 inches in diameter with several drainage holes on the bottom. Make sure the pot is placed in an area that receives full sun all day long.
Water the plant when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch. Fertilize it every other month during summer with a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) and every other month during winter.
How to Grow a Spider Plant Outdoors in the Ground?
Spider plants can grow in most soil types, but they prefer ground that is well-draining and rich with organic materials. When choosing a spot for planting, avoid areas where the soil stays wet for long periods of time.
Dig a hole that is twice the size of the pot your spider plant is currently in and place the plant in it. Make sure to pack the soil around the root to get rid of any air pockets. Water the plant well and fertilize it once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
How to Fertilize a Spider Plant Outdoors?
Giving your spider plant proper nutrition is essential for its success outdoors. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium will give the plant everything it needs to grow well. Fertilize your spider plant once a month during summer and once every other month during winter.
When Do I Water My Spider Plant Outdoors?
The best time to water your spider plant outdoors is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun has set. Make sure to give the plant a good watering, letting the water drain away completely. If not enough water is given to the plant, its leaves will start turning yellow and eventually fall off.
Can Spider Plants Thrive in Shade?
Although spider plants can grow in shaded areas during summer, they prefer partial or full sun. To promote growth indoors throughout winter, place your spider plant in a sunny window or under grow lights.
How to Propagate Spider Plant Outdoors?
You can propagate all types of spider plants outdoors by dividing mature plants into smaller clumps. Dig up the whole plant using a shovel and carefully divide it into several smaller pieces.
You can also grow new spider plants from cuttings taken from the mother plant. Cut a healthy, 6-inch stem from the mother plant and remove all of the leaves except for two or three at the top. Dip the stem into a rooting hormone powder and place it in a pot filled with moistened potting soil. Keep the pot in a warm, sunny spot and water regularly. After a few weeks, you will see new roots growing and can then transplant the new spider plant into the ground.
How Large Do Spider Plants Grow Outside?
In general, spider plants can grow to be 2 feet high and up to 3 feet wide, when planted directly in the ground. You can manage the growth rate of your spider plant by cutting off the top portion of the plant every few months. This will keep it from growing too large.
Common Outdoor Pests and Diseases
Spider plants are not susceptible to many pests or diseases outdoors, but they are commonly affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. If you notice any of these pests on your plant, use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap spray to get rid of them.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to grow spider plants outside, try one in your garden! Once the weather warms up in spring, plant them directly in the ground or in pots and enjoy their beautiful blooms all summer long. If you live in an area with cold winters, be sure to bring them inside before nighttime temperatures drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Happy gardening!
