🌡 What Temperature Should My Spider Plant Be Kept At?

Chlorophytum comosum

By Kiersten Rankel

Jun 17, 20246 min read

Discover the secret to lush Spider Plant growth with the perfect temperature guide 🌡️🌱.

Spider plant
  1. 65°F to 90°F is ideal for Spider Plants, with moderate fluctuations tolerated.
  2. 🌡️ Avoid extremes below 50°F or above 90°F to prevent damage.
  3. Consistent temperature and humidity ensure Spider Plant health and flowering.

Ideal Temperature Range

Spider Plants are the chill housemates of the plant world, but they do have their comfort zone. They prefer to lounge in temperatures between 65°F to 90°F (18°C to 32°C), which, let's face it, is pretty much what most of us enjoy.

🎯 Adaptability Is Key

These plants are not only easy on the eyes but also forgiving when it comes to the thermostat. Moderate fluctuations won't send them into a tizzy, as long as you keep things within their broad happy range. Just think of them as the guests who never complain about the room being too hot or too cold.

⛅️ The Sweet Spot

To hit the sweet spot, aim for a steady 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C) in the room where your Spider Plant resides. This range is like the comfort food for these green buddies—it keeps them thriving without the need for constant coddling.

🚫 Avoiding the Extremes

Sure, they can handle a bit of a temperature rollercoaster, but don't push it. Below 50°F or above 90°F, and you're entering the danger zone. Think of it as the difference between a refreshing dip and getting dunked in ice-cold water—neither is a pleasant surprise.

💦 Humidity: The Unsung Hero

While we're talking about temperature, let's not forget humidity. Spider Plants crave moderate to high humidity, ideally between 40-80%. If your home feels like a desert, consider a humidifier or a pebble tray to keep your green friend from throwing a fit.

📍 Location, Location, Location

Lastly, pick a spot away from those pesky drafts and direct sunlight that can mess with the temperature. Near a window that's not too drafty or by an interior wall is a prime real estate for these plants. Remember, they're not fans of sitting by the fireplace or under an AC vent—unless you want to deal with the plant equivalent of a bad hair day.

Healthy Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) in a terracotta pot with visible soil.

Impact of Temperature Stress

Temperature stress can be a real party pooper for Spider Plants. Too hot or too cold, and they'll throw a fit. If the mercury dips below 55°F (12°C), don't expect any flowers; it's like the plant's on strike. And if it's too toasty, growth takes a hit—think stunted shoots and less showy blooms.

🌡️ Stunted Growth and Reduced Flowering

When Spider Plants get chilly, they can become as unproductive as a screen door on a submarine. Cold stress leads to slow growth, fewer flowers, and a general look of "I'd rather be in Hawaii." It's not just a temporary sulk; prolonged exposure can cause long-term setbacks.

🥵 Long-Term Damage from Unsuitable Temperatures

Keep playing the "how low can you go" game with temperatures, and you might just win a one-way ticket to Brown Leaf City. Heat stress is no joke either; it can cook your plant's leaves faster than a microwave pizza. And just like that pizza, the results aren't pretty—think leaf burn and a general demeanor of defeat.

Real Talk: Temperature Fluctuations

Spider Plants aren't fans of surprises, especially when it comes to the thermostat. Sudden changes in temperature can leave them more twisted than a pretzel. To avoid this, keep them away from drafty windows and doors where they might get an unexpected chill.

The Bottom Line

In the end, Spider Plants are like Goldilocks—they want everything just right. Too hot or too cold, and they'll let you know by looking as unhappy as a cat in a bathtub. Keep them comfortable, and they'll reward you with their lush, green splendor.

Healthy Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) in a pot on a windowsill with vibrant green and white striped leaves.

Addressing Temperature Fluctuations

In the life of a Spider Plant, stability is key, especially when it comes to temperature. To keep your green buddy from throwing a fit, avoid placing it near doors that are frequently opened or by windows that leak more air than a sieve.

🌬️ Keep Drafts at Bay

Drafts are the nemesis of the Spider Plant's comfort. Relocate your plant away from those sneaky breezes that slip through cracks and crevices. This means steering clear of air conditioning units, heating vents, and drafty windows that could usher in sudden temperature changes.

🌞 Sunlight: Friend or Foe?

Direct sunlight is like that friend who doesn't know when to leave the party—it's all fun until it gets too intense. Move your Spider Plant to a spot where it can bask in bright, indirect light without getting scorched.

🌡️ Consistency is Comfort

Your Spider Plant craves a consistent environment. If you're the type to flip the AC on and off like a light switch, you might want to rethink that habit. Steady temperatures within the Spider Plant's comfort zone prevent growth spurts and sulkiness.

🌦️ Acclimatization: A Gentle Transition

When seasons change, don't just haul your plant from one extreme to another. Gradually adjust it to new conditions, whether you're bringing it in from the summer sun or protecting it from winter's chill. Think of it as easing into a hot bath—it's all about that slow, comforting transition.

Tools of the Trade

No humidifier? No problem. While misting can invite unwanted fungal guests, you can increase humidity with a pebble tray or by placing water containers around the plant. Just remember, Spider Plants are no fans of soggy feet, so don't overdo it.

Spider Plant in a pot with visible soil, healthy green leaves, and no signs of discoloration.

Seasonal Temperature Adjustments

Navigating the seasonal shifts in temperature is crucial for the well-being of your Spider Plant. Here's how to keep it in top shape year-round.

🌸 Spring and Summer Care

As the mercury rises, so does the need for vigilance. Keep your Spider Plant cool by situating it away from the harsh gaze of the sun, especially during the peak hours of the afternoon. Remember, air conditioning can be a friend and a foe; it's great for beating the heat but can plunge your plant into a chilly shock if overdone.

❄️ Fall and Winter Strategies

When winter's chill creeps in, it's time to switch gears. Avoid drafts like the plague; they're the silent killers of houseplants. Your Spider Plant's no fan of the cold shoulder, so keep it away from windows that leak in more than just light. And while cranking up the heat keeps you cozy, it can suck the life out of the room—humidity-wise, that is. Consider a humidifier to keep the air comfortably damp for your green buddy.

🌈 Year-Round Tips

Regardless of the season, avoid drastic temperature swings. Transition your plant slowly if you're moving it to a different spot. And while Spider Plants are hardy, they're not indestructible. Watch for tell-tale signs of distress like mushy leaves or brown tips, and adjust accordingly. Remember, your plant's comfort zone is your comfort zone, so if you're feeling good, chances are your Spider Plant is too.

Ensure your Spider Plant is always in its comfort zone 🌡️ with Greg's environment tracking and personalized care reminders, keeping it safe from temperature swings.



You Might Also Want to Know...

What kind of lighting is best for spider plants?

Spider plants thrive in medium to bright indirect light, so it's important to provide them with that kind of lighting.

What type of soil is best for spider plants?

Spider plants prefer a well-draining soil that retains some water, so look for a soil that contains additives like peat moss, core, or vermiculite.

How often should I water my spider plant?

Spider plants like to be kept moist but not soggy, so water them when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch.

What temperature range is ideal for spider plants?

Spider plants prefer warm and humid conditions, so it's best to keep them in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and protect them from drafts and air conditioning vents.

Can spider plants tolerate low humidity?

Spider plants prefer higher humidity levels, so if the humidity drops below 45 percent, it can lead to brown leaf tips. To increase humidity, you can mist the plants, use humidity trays, or group them together with other houseplants.

How often should I fertilize my spider plant?

Spider plants don't require heavy feeding, but they do benefit from a moderate amount of fertilizer. Fertilize them every other month using an organic houseplant fertilizer.

When is the best time to repot a spider plant?

The best time to repot spider plants is in the spring or summer. They typically need repotting every two to three years, but if they're fast-growing, it may be necessary to repot them annually.

How should I prune my spider plant?

Remove any dead or browning leaves as they appear, and if the plant becomes too leggy, you can remove the plantlets that form at the bottom of the leaves to redirect energy towards leaf growth.

What pests are common for spider plants?

Spider mites can be a common pest for spider plants, especially if the conditions are too dry. Rinse the foliage with water and maintain a humid environment to deter spider mites. Neem oil can also be used to control them.

Can spider plants be propagated?

Yes, spider plants can be propagated by planting the plantlets that form at the bottom of the leaves.