Snake Plant
Say hello to your new best friend, the Snake Plant (Sansevieria), also known as Mother-in-law's Tongue! With her tall, sleek, and striking leaves, the Snake Plant is as stylish as she is tough. She’s practically indestructible, making her perfect for anyone — whether you're a seasoned plant parent or a beginner. Let’s break down how to keep this beautiful plant thriving with minimal effort!
🌞 Light: Low Light? No Problem! Snake Plants are the ultimate low-light lovers. They can survive in the darkest corners of your home, though they’ll grow faster and look their best in bright, indirect light. If she’s in a spot with too much direct sunlight, her leaves can scorch, turning them a bit crispy at the edges.
Bonus Tip: If the leaves start leaning toward the light source, it’s a sign she’s asking for a little more sunshine! Just rotate her every couple of weeks to help her grow evenly.
💦 Watering: Less is More This plant thrives on neglect when it comes to watering. Snake Plants are succulents, meaning they store water in their leaves and can go for long periods without a drink. Only water when the soil has completely dried out — usually every 2-6 weeks depending on the season and humidity. When you do water, be sure to do so thoroughly, but never let her sit in water (root rot is real!).
Bonus Tip: In the winter months, Snake Plants will need even less water, so cut back and let her rest. If you’re unsure whether she needs a drink, stick your finger in the soil — if it’s dry, she’s thirsty!
🌡️ Temperature: Warm and Cozy Snake Plants like it warm! Keep her in a room between 60°F – 85°F (16°C – 29°C). She’s a fan of moderate temperatures and can handle a little heat but isn’t a fan of the cold. Avoid placing her near windows that open in the winter or air conditioners.
Bonus Tip: If your Snake Plant is exposed to cold drafts, the tips of the leaves may start to turn brown. Keep her in a consistent, warm spot to avoid that!
🌱 Humidity: Not a Diva Snake Plants are pretty chill when it comes to humidity. They’re happy in average home humidity levels, which makes them perfect for the dry winter months or homes with central heating. No extra humidifying needed unless you’re living in an extremely dry area.
Bonus Tip: If your air is particularly dry (hello, winter!), a light mist once in a while won’t hurt, but don't overdo it — Snake Plants don’t like soggy soil or leaves!
🌿 Soil: Well-Draining, Please Snake Plants like their soil to be fast-draining, so go for a cactus or succulent mix, or mix regular potting soil with some perlite or sand to improve drainage. Make sure your pot has drainage holes, because standing water is a no-no.
Bonus Tip: If you’re using a regular potting mix, add a little extra perlite to make sure the soil doesn’t hold onto too much moisture. Snake Plants prefer their roots on the drier side.
🌳 Potting & Repotting: Slow Grower, Minimal Effort Snake Plants grow slowly, so they don’t need to be repotted often. Aim to repot her every 2-3 years or when you notice the roots outgrowing the pot. When repotting, go for a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger than her current one — no need to go too big.
Bonus Tip: Repotting is best done in spring when she’s actively growing. Avoid repotting during the winter months when her growth slows down.
🧹 Cleaning: Keep Those Leaves Shiny Snake Plants have gorgeous, glossy leaves that can collect dust. Wipe them down with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to help them photosynthesize more efficiently and keep them looking fresh.
Bonus Tip: Snake Plants don’t need a lot of extra pampering, but a gentle wipe every now and then helps keep her looking her best. Use a soft cloth to avoid scratching her leaves.
⚡ Troubleshooting: What to Watch For
- Yellow Leaves: Yellowing can be a sign of overwatering, so double-check that the soil is completely dry before giving her a drink. If her soil is too wet, let it dry out before watering again.
- Brown Leaf Tips: Brown tips can be a sign of under-watering or too much direct sunlight. If she’s been thirsty for too long or sitting in harsh sun, give her some TLC by adjusting her care routine.
- Leggy Growth: If your Snake Plant starts looking a little leggy (with long, thin leaves), it could mean she’s not getting enough light. Move her to a brighter spot for more consistent growth.
Snake Plant’s Signature Look With her upright, sword-like leaves and striking patterns, the Snake Plant adds a bold, architectural vibe to any space. Whether you place her on the floor, on a shelf, or in a corner, she’s sure to make a statement. The best part? She thrives on neglect — perfect for busy plant lovers.
You’ve got this! Keep it simple with low light, little water, and a cozy spot, and your Snake Plant will reward you with those gorgeous, tall leaves for years to come. 🌿✨