Spider Plant Curly Leaves: Reasons and Remedies

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Spider plants are beautiful, easy-to-care-for houseplants that are popular for their ability to purify indoor air. These plants stand out for their long, cascading leaves that are variegated with white stripes. But what do you do when your spider plant’s leaves start to curl?

There are a few reasons why the leaves on spider plants may be curling; luckily, some simple remedies can help solve the problem.

Spider Plant Curly LeavesPin

Why Are My Spider Plant Leaves Curling?

There are a few reasons your spider plant’s leaves may be curling. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Too Much Water

Spiders are sensitive to overwatering, and too much water can cause the leaves to curl. 

If you think your plant is getting too much water, check the soil to see if it is soggy or wet. Then, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.



2. Too Little Water

Curling of leaves may happen if the plant is not getting enough water.

If the leaves are wilting or beginning to brown, this is a sign that the plant needs more water.

Be sure to water your airplane plant regularly. The ideal watering period is every 4 to 5 days.

3. Temperature Stress

Spider plants are sensitive to both cold and hot temperatures. If the leaves curl due to temperature stress, they usually have brown tips.

To remedy this, ensure the plant is in a location between 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit.

While they love sunlight and will grow outdoors in full sun once acclimated, indoors these plants do not like direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to scorch.

4. Size Of The Pot

If you notice that your spider ivy plant is growing rapidly and the leaves are curling, it may be time to transplant it into a larger pot.

A pot that is too small can restrict the plant’s growth and cause the leaves to curl.

In addition, you may notice overgrown roots coming out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot if it is too small.

The roots will become damaged if they are root bound in a constricted space.

On the other hand, if you place the plant in an oversized pot, you may deal with root rot. This happens because nutrients and moisture are not being used as efficiently, and the roots begin to rot.

5. Pests

Spider plants are susceptible to the following pests, including:

  • Mealybugs
  • Spider mites
  • Aphids

These pests can cause the leaves to curl and eventually kill the plant.

  • If you think your airplane plant has pests, check the undersides of the leaves for small, white bugs.
  • You may also see webbing or small dots on the leaves.
  • Try using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to get rid of pests.
  • You can also use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product you are using.

6. Nutrient Deficiencies

Spider plants need a well-balanced fertilizer to thrive. 

If the leaves curl due to a nutrient deficiency, they usually have brown or yellow patches. A lack of nitrogen is the most common nutrient deficiency in Chlorophytum.

You can remedy this by fertilizing your plant with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

How To Fix Curling Spider Plant Leaves?

Once you’ve identified the cause of curling leaves, you can take the appropriate steps to fix the problem.

However, the following tips are good for overall maintenance of spider plants, even if you are not 100% percent sure of the cause.

  • When you see the leaves curling due to overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
  • You will know you have overwatered plants if the soil is soggy or wet long after watering or if the leaves are yellow or brown.
  • If the problem is due to underwatering, stay on a schedule where you water it at least once a week.
  • When curling leaves happen due to temperature stress, ensure the plant is in a location that provides good but indirect sunlight.

For example, use a room with windows, but you don’t need to place the plants directly in the window.

If you have a room thermometer, use this to monitor the temperature around the plant.

The ideal temperature for Chlorophytum plants is between 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit.

When it comes to humidity, spider plants prefer it on the higher side. You can use a humidifier in the room or place the plant on a pebble tray.

To prevent nutrient deficiencies, be sure to fertilize your airplane plant regularly.

  • Use a standard houseplant fertilizer or one high in nitrogen.
  • Avoid boron or fluoride fertilizers because they can harm spider plants. Fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season and monthly during the winter.

In the case of root rot, repotting your spider is a must. Do this by removing the plant from the pot and gently washing the roots.

Allow them to dry and then replant in fresh, well-draining soil. The new pot should be about two inches larger in diameter than the previous one. 

You Can Fix Your Spider Plant With Curly Leaves

In conclusion, spider airplane plants are resilient and can bounce back from various problems.

If you have curling leaves on your Chlorophytum, look closely at the plant and try to identify the problem.

Once you know what is causing the curling, take steps to fix it.

With a little love and care, your curling leaves spider plant will be green and healthy in no time.

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