Question
how many types of spider plants are there?  how do you start a baby with no roots? thank-you Kim

Answer
Hi Kim,

Theer are two basic types of what are commonly called spider plants. There is the green and white striped variety and the all green variety. However, there are many other hybrids that may be slightly different.

The base of a baby plantlet will develop roots if it is in constant contact with something damp. You can snip the baby off and float it in a glass of water until it develops roots about an inch long. Or you could place it on top of a small pot filled with damp potting mix. You could even set it on top of a nearby sponge that is kept damp at all times until it has developed inch-long roots. However you do it, it doesn't matter if you sever it from the runner before or after roots have formed.

In nature, the runners extend out over the damp floor of the rain forest. The babies are always in touch with the damp soil so they quickly put down roots and eventually produce babies of their own. This is how the plant makes sure it continues to survive in nature.

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

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com