Most people know that snake plants are very tough and easy to take care of which is why they are often seen as ideal houseplants. However even tough plants like snake plants need a little bit of care and attention in order to stay healthy and thrive indoors. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your snake plant indoors:
Light: Snake plants do best in bright indirect light. They can tolerate low light conditions but will often become leggy and unhealthy looking if they do not receive enough light. If you are growing your snake plant in a pot make sure to rotate it regularly so that all sides of the plant get an equal amount of light.
Water: Snake plants are very drought tolerant so they do not need to be watered very often. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. If you notice that your plant is starting to wilt or look unhealthy it is probably getting too much water.
Temperature: Snake plants prefer warm temperatures but can tolerate cooler temperatures down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil: Snake plants do not need rich fertile soil. In fact they will do better in poorer quality soil that is well-draining. If you are potting your snake plant use a potting mix that is designed for succulents or cacti.
Fertilizer: Snake plants do not need a lot of fertilizer but you can feed them every few months with a diluted liquid fertilizer if you want.
Pruning: Snake plants can be pruned to remove dead or dying leaves as well as to control their size and shape. If you are growing your snake plant in a pot you may need to prune it regularly to keep it from getting too big.
With just a little bit of care your snake plant will thrive indoors and will be a beautiful and easy-care addition to your home.
1.
How often should I water my snake plant?
Answer: You should water your snake plant about once a week allowing the soil to dry out in between watering.
2.
What type of potting mix should I use for my snake plant?
Answer: A well-draining potting mix is best for snake plants.
You can use a cactus or succulent potting mix or you can make your own mix by mixing equal parts potting soil perlite and sand.
3.
How much light does my snake plant need?
Answer: Snake plants prefer bright indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions.
4.
What is the best way to propagate my snake plant?
Answer: Snake plants can be propagated by division or by leaf cuttings.
5.
Should I fertilize my snake plant?
Answer: You can fertilize your snake plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Use a diluted all-purpose fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents and cacti.
6.
What are the ideal growing conditions for snake plants?
Answer: Snake plants prefer bright indirect light and well-draining soil.
They are tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and can even tolerate some drought.
7.
Are snake plants toxic to pets?
Answer: Yes snake plants are toxic to pets.
If ingested they can cause vomiting diarrhea and drooling.
8.
What pests or diseases do snake plants commonly experience?
Answer: Snake plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases but they can occasionally be affected by mealybugs spider mites or leaf spot.
9.
How often should I repot my snake plant?
Answer: You should repot your snake plant every two to three years or when the root system becomes pot bound.
10.
Can snake plants be grown outdoors?
Answer: Yes snake plants can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.
11.
What is the best time of year to plant snake plants?
Answer: The best time of year to plant snake plants is in the spring.
12.
How long do snake plants live?
Answer: With proper care snake plants can live for many years.
They are relatively slow-growing plants so they do not need to be replaced as often as other houseplants.
13.
How big do snake plants get?
Answer: Snake plants can reach up to 4 feet in height and 2 feet in width.
14.
What is the difference between snake plants and sansevierias?
Answer: Snake plants and sansevierias are actually the same plant.
The scientific name for snake plant is Sansevieria trifasciata.
15.
Do snake plants need to be pruned?
Answer: No snake plants do not need to be pruned.
You can trim off any yellow or dying leaves but otherwise there is no need to prune your snake plant.
