Spider plant is an annual that heavily self-sows so once a few plants established more plants are likely to follow in the following years. The flower color is variable and can be white, pink or shades of lavender. Hybrid seed is available that provides plants of one color but they will probably not breed true so expect all three colors in their offspring. Hybrids are also usually shorter and bushier than the species so may fill a different niche in the garden.
Spider plant seed is best sown outdoors after the last spring frost and when temperatures remain above 40 F. Germination occurs best when day time temperatures are between 70 and 75 F and night time temperatures are ten degrees less. Press seed into the soil and keep moist.
Starting seed indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost involves some special techniques that deal with light and temperature requirements and duplicate the natural change between day and night time temperatures. As a result starting spider flower indoors may not be worth the trouble to many gardeners.
Directions for Indoor Sowing:
1. Sow the seeds into flats or pots filled with moist growing medium and press into soil. Seeds need light for germination.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and put into the refrigerator for two weeks.
3. Place seeds in an area that gets temperatures of 70 to 75 F during the day and 10 degrees less at night. The use of a heating pad during the day may be necessary. Germination should occur in 10 to 14 days at optimal conditions but may take longer.
4. Remove plastic wrap as soon as the seedlings appear.
5. Harden off seedlings.
6. Plant into garden 18-24 inches apart. Spider flowers are most effective in clumps of five or more.
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