How to Grow Spiderwort

Spiderworts typically grow in moist, well-drained, and acidic (pH 5 to 6) soil, though I have found the plants to be quite forgiving in the garden and tolerant of many soil conditions. Spiderwort plants do best in partial shade but will do equally well in sunny areas as long as the soil is kept moist.

Is spiderwort an invasive plant?
How does spiderwort spread?
Can you root spiderwort in water?
Is spiderwort an annual or perennial?
What can I plant next to spiderwort?
Should I plant spiderwort?
Do you deadhead spiderwort?
Will vinegar kill spiderwort?
Can you divide spiderwort?
Are spiderwort plants poisonous?
Why is my spiderwort plant dying?
Why does spiderwort fall over?

Is spiderwort an invasive plant?

Spiderwort is invasive! The plant self seeds and grows everywhere in the yard growing in tight bundles choking out other plants. The roots go down about 2-3 inches, and are tightly packed making it difficult to remove. The plant is a vigorous grower.

How does spiderwort spread?

The simplest way to propagate spiderwort is by using nursery plants or taking a plant from a friend. Spiderwort spreads quickly through underground runners so once you have an established plant, you can get many more through divisions. You can also grow spiderwort from seed. Plant the seed outdoors in the fall.

Can you root spiderwort in water?

Start the rooting process in water. First, remove the bottom leaves on the cuttings and then stick them in a glass of water. Leave them for a week or so in sunlight and you'll begin to see little roots form. Once your cuttings have roots, you can put them in a container with standard potting soil.

Is spiderwort an annual or perennial?

Spiderwort

genus name	Tradescantia
light	Part Sun Shade Sun
plant type	Perennial
height	Under 6 inches 6 to 12 inches 1 to 3 feet
width	8 to 36 inches wide, depending on variety

What can I plant next to spiderwort?

COMPANION & UNDERSTUDY PLANTS: Tradescantia ohiensis mingles cheerfully with Asclepias incarnata, Chrysogonum virginianum, Eupatorium perfoliatum, Penstemon digitalis, Rudbekia hirta and Schizachyrium scoparium.

Should I plant spiderwort?

Spiderwort plants do best in partial shade but will do equally well in sunny areas as long as the soil is kept moist. Spiderworts can be grown from purchased plants or propagated through division, cuttings, or seed. Plant them in spring about 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm.)

Do you deadhead spiderwort?

No deadheading is necessary to achieve repeated blooming on your spiderwort. However, it does tend to self-sow enthusiastically, so if you're worried about containing the spread of your spiderwort, you can shear the plants back after their last flowering so they don't have a chance to go to seed.

Will vinegar kill spiderwort?

White Vinegar

Pouring or spraying a little white vinegar on the offending weeds. This acidic masterpiece is perfect for shriveling weeds, just be careful of your flowers. A little excess spray won't hurt them, but accidentally pouring the same amount of vinegar on your flowers as your weeds could kill them.

Can you divide spiderwort?

Every two to three years, divide up spiderwort clumps to keep the area from getting overcrowded. Divide the plants in late winter in frost-free areas while the air is cool and the soil is still moist. Slide a shovel under the whole clump and lift it from the ground then break up the roots into sections.

Are spiderwort plants poisonous?

Warning: POISONOUS PARTS: Leaves. Minor skin irritation if touched. Symptoms include skin irritation with redness and itching, but of low risk. Toxic Principle: Unidentified, possibly oxalate crystals.

Why is my spiderwort plant dying?

Root Rot. Spiderwort grows well in moist soil, but boggy conditions can allow a water mold (Pythium sp.) to attack roots, causing rot. Symptoms include wilt and eventual death of the plant. Fungal infection begins at root tips and advances up the roots, turning them brown or black and mushy.

Why does spiderwort fall over?

Their flowers open in the morning and close as the day goes on, so perhaps they are drooping over in protest against too much sunlight. Once they have ceased blooming in the summer, they can be cut back severely, and other plants, perhaps annuals, can be interspersed to keep the area attractive.