Question
QUESTION: i think the roots on my spider plant are rotting because i was watering it too much (i didn't know better) one of the plants has babies atatched to it, the leaves started getting brown and limp. i pulled up on the plant and it came out with almost no roots, the roots that are there were soft. i took them off and put the plant in a glass with the things that look like pea that you can get in differnt colors and swell with water. do you think i will be able to save this plant? do you think it will root?  thank you kim

ANSWER: Hi Kim,

If the roots are completely rotted and most of the leaves are limp or discolored, then it is unlikely to make new roots and survive. If you post a photo, I may have a better idea about its prospects. In any case, you have nothing to lose by trying to root it in plain water or in a small pot with damp soil.

You might also consider severing a healthy baby plant and rooting that separately.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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spider plant  

spider plant   QUESTION: here is a picture of the plant I think I see a little root on the bottom. I also have a picture of the pot with the rest of the plant in it, some of the plant die so I add  another one to it. do you think I should replant it or just leave it alone? the soil is a little damp so I have not been watering it.  I'm almost sure the problem is my fault, I
have been watering like you water out side flowers. I am so glad I found this web site. I have learned so much. thank-you Kim

Answer
Hi Kim,

I think the small plant you are trying to root will be okay either in water or inserted into the soil of the larger plant. The plant will sacrifice some older leaves until it develops roots of its own. Trim off those discolored leaves.

Allow the top half-inch of soil to dry in between waterings. Lots of sunlight and warm temps will help a lot.

~Will