If you are a plant parent, you know how frustrating it can be when your plants don’t look healthy. One of the most common problems that variegated spider plant owners face is their plant falling over. This can be alarming and confusing, especially if you have been taking care of your plant as per instructions. In this article, we will discuss the common reasons why your variegated spider plant may be falling over and what you can do to fix it.
Overwatering is one of the most common reasons why variegated spider plants fall over. These plants are native to South Africa, where they grow in well-draining soil. If you are overwatering your plant, the soil may become waterlogged, causing the roots to rot. This can weaken the plant’s structure, making it more likely to fall over.
To check if your variegated spider plant is overwatered, gently remove it from its pot and examine the roots. Healthy roots should be firm and white. If the roots are mushy and brown, this is a sign of overwatering.
To fix an overwatered variegated spider plant, you should repot it in fresh, well-draining soil. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Variegated spider plants require bright, indirect light to grow properly. If your plant is not getting enough light, it may become weak and floppy, causing it to fall over.
To check if your variegated spider plant is getting enough light, look at its leaves. If they are turning yellow or brown and/or drooping downwards, this is a sign that the plant needs more light.
To fix a variegated spider plant that is not getting enough light, move it to a brighter location. You can also supplement its light with artificial grow lights.
Another reason why your variegated spider plant may be falling over is due to pests. Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects are common pests that can infest variegated spider plants. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing it to weaken and eventually fall over.
To check if your variegated spider plant has pests, examine its leaves and stems for any signs of infestation. Look for tiny webs (spider mites), white fluff (mealybugs), or small bumps (scale insects).
To fix a variegated spider plant that has pests, you should isolate it from your other plants and treat it with a pesticide. You can also use natural remedies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Variegated spider plants can become root-bound if they have been growing in the same pot for too long. When this happens, the roots start to grow in circles, causing the plant to become unstable and fall over.
To check if your variegated spider plant is root-bound, gently remove it from its pot and examine the roots. If you see a lot of roots growing in circles around the soil, this is a sign that your plant is root-bound.
To fix a root-bound variegated spider plant, you should repot it in a larger pot with fresh soil. Make sure to loosen the roots before planting them in the new soil.
Variegated spider plants should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. Make sure not to overwater your plant as this can cause it to fall over.
Yes, you can propagate your variegated spider plant by taking cuttings from its runners. Place the cuttings in water or soil, and they will grow into new plants.
Variegated spider plants require well-draining soil. You can use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and sand to create a well-draining soil for your plant.
Variegated spider plants require bright, indirect light. They can also tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon.