Sansevieria Care

Sansevieria, also known as Snake Plant and Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, are a popular, easy to care for houseplant that is can handle just about anything you throw at them. These plants come in a multitude of colors and patterns and do well in just about every environment.

Light – Sansevieria can adapt to nearly all light conditions, but avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching. They do best in moderate light.

Water – Allow plants to dry out completely before watering. Overwatering is the number one cause of Sansevieria death.

Soil – Well-draining soil is extremely important, Snake Plants do not tolerate wet feet. Cactus soils, like Espoma Cactus Mix, are a good choice as they dry quickly, but traditional potting soils work as well.

Temperature – Ideally temperatures should be between 70 and 90 degrees, though they will tolerate temperatures in the 60’s. Do not expose plants to temperatures below 50 degrees and protect them from drafts, especially during winter.

Humidity – Snake plants do not require much humidity, the levels of the average home or office are perfect.

Fertilization – Either a balanced like Bonide Liquid Plant Food fertilizer or a cactus fertilizer work well for Sansevieria. Use according to the label’s instruction. There is no need to fertilize during winter.

Size – Depending on variety, Sansevieria can reach between 6 inches and 8 feet tall, though the average is 3 to 4 feet tall.

Repotting – Sansevieria are fairly slow growing and enjoy being pot-bound so they don’t need repotting very often. When you do repot them, select a container only 1 size larger than their current container and with good drainage. Snake Plants have strong root systems so choose a sturdy container; they have been known to break thin plastic pots.

Propagation – While Snake Plants can be propagated by leaf cutting, it’s infinitely easier to do so by dividing their root systems while repotting.

Toxicity – Moderately toxic to people and pets if ingested.