How to Care for Snake Plants
Watering Snake Plants
One of the most common problems encountered with snake plants (and other succulents) is overwatering. These plants do not tolerate soggy soil; they tend to develop root rot. To avoid this, follow these watering practices:
- Do not water too frequently. Let the soil mostly dry out between watering’s.
- To know when it’s time to water, don’t just rely on how the surface of the soil looks. Instead, carefully stick your finger or a wooden chopstick a couple of inches into the soil. Hold off on watering if you feel any moisture or see soil stick to the chopstick.
- Water from the bottom of the pot, if possible. This encourages the roots to grow downward and deep, helping to stabilize the thick, tall leaves.
- During the winter, while the plant isn’t actively growing, water less often than you would in spring and summer.
Caring for Snake Plants
- The large, flat leaves tend to collect dust; wipe them down with a damp cloth as needed.
- In good conditions, snake plants are rapid growers and may need to be divided annually.
- Divide and repot in the spring. Cut out a section containing leaves and roots and place it in a pot with a well-draining potting mix.
- If a snake plant is pot-bound, it may flower occasionally. Fragrant, greenish-white flower clusters appear on tall spikes.
