Sansevieria (Snake Plants)Updated 5 months ago
Sansevierias, commonly known as snake plants, are arguably the most indestructible plants around. They can handle any condition, whether it's a dark room or a sunny, hot rooftop. There are about 70 different known species, and with how easy they are to grow, you may find yourself wanting to collect them all!
Light: Snake plants can tolerate low-light conditions but thrive in bright indirect light. Placement near a west or south facing window is ideal. ☀
Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. They're drought tolerant and overwatering can lead to root rot. In general, water every 3-6 weeks, depending on the light and temperature. When the plant is ready to be watered, be sure that it's thorough. Try our Moisture Meter for easy moisture level monitoring. 💧
Feeding: Fertilize sparingly. During the growing season (spring and summer), you can use a balanced, all-purpose houseplant fertilizer once a month. No need to fertilize in the fall and winter. We have a collection of our favorite plant foods here!
Maintenance: Remove any dead or damaged leaves by cutting them off at the base. This encourages new growth and keeps the plant looking tidy. Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep the plant healthy. 😀
Repotting: Snake plants prefer to be slightly root-bound. Repot every 2-3 years or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix, or amend regular potting soil with sand or perlite to ensure good drainage. We recommend our very own potting mix for arid plants!
Toxicity: These plants are toxic, so keep out of reach of pets and small children. 🐍
Common Issues: Oftentimes, snake plants meet their demise from overwatering and root rot. These plants will not tolerate wet feet or soggy soil. It's best to plant in a pot with a proper drainage hole and a well-draining potting mix. Pot lacks a hole? Look up the pot type and determine if it's safe to drill one in on your own. If not, add a layer of lava rocks to the bottom of your pot to ensure roots are never swimming.
To prevent root rot from taking out your plant, be very mindful of your watering habits. The first sign of root rot in a snake plant is a soft stem base or discolored foliage. If you notice any of these warning signs, immediately remove the plant from the soil and remove all signs of rot. Even if you're left with no roots, the plant may stand a chance. As we already mentioned, sansevierias are very resilient, so as long as you catch it early, it will survive the infection.
