19 Disadvantages of Variegated Spider Plants You Should Know About

Cafe Planta Team
Houseplants in a beautiful sunny space

Variegated spider plants are a popular choice for many plant lovers, thanks to their striking appearance and air-purifying qualities. But just like a new puppy, they're not all sunshine and rainbows. These little green companions come with their own set of quirks and challenges that might make you reconsider adding them to your plant family.

If you're thinking about bringing a variegated spider plant into your home, it's good to be informed. In this article, we'll explore some of the downsides that come with these leafy friends. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or a newbie, understanding the potential pitfalls can help you make an informed choice.

1. Prone to Brown Tips

Spider plants are notorious for developing brown tips on their leaves. It's like their way of saying, "Hey, something's not quite right!" This can be due to a variety of reasons such as inconsistent watering, low humidity, or even fluoride in your water. While brown tips don't necessarily mean your plant is on the brink of disaster, they can certainly detract from its beauty.

To combat this, you can try using distilled water or rainwater, as these don't contain the salts and chemicals found in tap water. Also, maintaining a regular watering schedule and ensuring your plant isn't placed in a drafty spot can help. But let's be honest, it can be a bit of a guessing game to pinpoint the exact cause.

2. Sensitivity to Water Quality

Speaking of water, these plants can be quite picky about what they're drinking. Tap water often contains chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can be harmful over time. If you've been noticing those pesky brown tips, it might be time to switch up your water source.

Consider letting tap water sit out overnight before using it, which allows some of the chlorine to evaporate. Alternatively, using filtered or distilled water can be a more reliable solution. It's a small adjustment, but keeping your spider plant happy can sometimes require a bit more attention to detail.

3. Overwatering Concerns

If there's one thing spider plants dislike more than poor water quality, it's having their roots sitting in water. Overwatering is a common issue and can lead to root rot—a plant parent's nightmare. It’s easy to think you’re doing them a favor by giving them a good drink, but too much love, in this case, can be detrimental.

Keep an eye on the soil, and make sure it dries out between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to water once the top inch of soil feels dry. Investing in a pot with drainage holes can also help prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, offering your spider plant's roots some much-needed breathing room.

4. Rapid Growth Can Be Overwhelming

While fast growth is usually a good thing, it can sometimes feel like your spider plant is taking over your home. These plants can grow quickly, producing a lot of offshoots in the process. While these "babies" are fun to propagate and share, managing them all can be a bit of a task.

If you're not careful, you might find yourself with more spider plants than you know what to do with. Regular pruning can help keep your plant in check, but it does require a bit of time and commitment. On the bright side, you can always gift the extras to friends and family.

5. Susceptible to Pests

Spider plants, like many houseplants, can become a target for pests. Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects can all make themselves at home on your plant. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also cause significant damage if not dealt with promptly.

Regularly inspecting your plant for any signs of pests is crucial. If you do find any unwanted visitors, a gentle wipe with a damp cloth or a spray of insecticidal soap can often do the trick. However, staying vigilant and maintaining a healthy plant environment are your best defenses against these pesky intruders.

6. Variegation Loss

One of the most attractive features of variegated spider plants is their unique leaf patterns. However, under certain conditions, you might notice your plant losing its variegation, with new growth emerging as solid green. This can happen due to inadequate lighting or stress.

To maintain those beautiful patterns, ensure your spider plant gets enough indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the loss of variegation. A bright, well-lit room without direct sunlight is often the sweet spot.

7. Requires Regular Pruning

With their rapid growth and tendency to produce offshoots, spider plants can quickly become unruly if not pruned regularly. This can be a bit of a chore, especially if you're juggling multiple plants or a busy schedule.

Regular pruning not only keeps your plant looking tidy but also encourages healthy growth. Snip off any brown tips, remove dead leaves, and trim back excessive offshoots to keep your spider plant in top shape. It’s a bit like giving your plant a haircut—necessary, but not always fun.

8. Not Ideal for Households with Cats

If you have feline friends at home, you might want to think twice before bringing a spider plant into the mix. While spider plants are not toxic to cats, they can have a mild hallucinogenic effect, leading to curious cats nibbling on the leaves.

This isn't usually harmful, but it can result in your plant looking a bit worse for wear. If your cat has a penchant for chewing on greenery, consider placing your spider plant out of reach or providing alternative cat-friendly plants like cat grass.

9. Attracts Dust

Spider plants, with their long, arching leaves, can be dust magnets. A layer of dust can not only dull their vibrant appearance but also hinder their ability to photosynthesize effectively.

Regular cleaning is necessary to keep them looking their best. A gentle wipe down with a damp cloth or a quick shower in the sink can help remove dust buildup. It's a simple task, but one that needs to be done regularly to ensure your plant stays healthy and happy.

10. Sensitive to Temperature Changes

Spider plants are like the Goldilocks of the plant world—they want conditions to be just right. Sudden temperature changes can stress these plants out, leading to droopy leaves or stunted growth.

Try to keep your spider plant in a stable environment, away from drafts, heaters, or air conditioning vents. Maintaining a consistent temperature will help your plant thrive. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your plant feels at home.

11. Limited Indoor Placement Options

While spider plants are adaptable, they do have preferences when it comes to their living arrangements. They thrive in bright, indirect light, which can limit where you place them in your home.

Finding a spot that offers the right amount of light without direct sun can be a bit of a challenge, especially in homes with limited window options. However, with a little creativity, you can usually find a suitable location that keeps both you and your plant happy.

12. Nutrient Needs Can Be Tricky

Spider plants, like all living things, need nutrients to grow and thrive. However, over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can harm your plant. It's a delicate balance to strike.

Generally, feeding your spider plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring and summer) should suffice. In the fall and winter, you can cut back on fertilizing. Just make sure to follow the instructions and avoid the temptation to overdo it.

13. Not the Best for Low Light Conditions

If you're hoping to place a spider plant in a dimly lit corner, you might be setting yourself up for disappointment. While they can survive in low light, they won't thrive, and you may notice slower growth and less vibrant foliage.

For the best results, place your spider plant in a location that gets bright, indirect light. If natural light is scarce, supplementing with a grow light can help keep your plant happy and healthy.

14. Limited Tolerance for Neglect

While spider plants are often touted as low-maintenance, they still require a certain level of care and attention. Neglecting their needs can lead to a sad-looking plant.

Regular watering, occasional pruning, and keeping an eye out for pests are all part of the package when caring for a spider plant. If you're prone to forgetting about your plants, you might find a spider plant a bit more demanding than you anticipated.

15. Potential for Root Bound Issues

Spider plants are fast growers and can quickly outgrow their pots. If left unchecked, they can become root bound, which can stunt their growth and affect their overall health.

To prevent this, consider repotting your spider plant every couple of years. Choose a pot that's one size larger, and make sure it has drainage holes. This gives the roots more room to spread and helps your plant continue to flourish.

16. Leaf Curling Issues

Another common issue with spider plants is leaf curling. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including underwatering, too much sun, or even pest infestations.

Addressing leaf curling involves identifying the root cause. Check your watering schedule, inspect the leaves for pests, and evaluate the lighting conditions to ensure your plant is getting the care it needs.

17. Needs Adequate Humidity

Spider plants prefer environments with moderate humidity. If your home is particularly dry, especially in winter, your plant might suffer.

Using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plant can help increase humidity levels. Alternatively, grouping plants together can create a micro-habitat with higher humidity, benefiting all your leafy friends.

18. Not as Hardy as Some Other Houseplants

Compared to some other houseplants like pothos or ZZ plants, spider plants can be a bit more finicky. They have specific preferences when it comes to water, light, and temperature.

While they're not the most challenging plant to care for, they're not the easiest either. If you're looking for a truly low-maintenance plant, you might want to consider other options.

19. Can Be Messy

With their rapid growth and tendency to produce offshoots, spider plants can sometimes be a bit messy. Falling leaves and offshoots can create extra cleanup work.

Regular maintenance, such as pruning and cleaning, can help keep the mess in check. But if you're someone who prefers a more orderly environment, this might be something to consider.

Final Thoughts

While variegated spider plants have their downsides, they also offer a lot of charm and beauty. From their air-purifying qualities to their unique appearance, they can be a great addition to any home—if you're willing to meet their needs.

At Cafe Planta, we're here to help you on your plant journey. Whether you're looking for new plant babies or advice on caring for your existing collection, we've got you covered. Feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. Let's grow together!

Back to blog