How to care for snake plants

Watering snake plants

Snake plants are very drought-resistant, so they don’t need a lot of water. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the growing season (spring and summer), you can water your snake plant more often maybe once a week. In the winter, water a lot less. But always check the soil before watering.

Take care not to overwater your snake plant. To test whether it needs watering, stick your finger into the soil up to your second knuckle – if the soil is moist, hold off on watering. Also, try to avoid getting the leaves wet when you do water it.

Where to position snake plants

Keep your snake plant in a well-lit area of the house as they are one of the few plants that can tolerate direct sunlight. They can cope in low light, they just won't thrive as well.

Remember to keep this plant away from pets and children, as it can be toxic to them if ingested.

Caring for snake plants

Snake plants prefer warm temperatures, between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate cooler temperatures, however again they won’t grow as well. Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any dust build up to help the plant grow.

Feed your snake plant once a month during the growing season using a fertiliser that’s specially formulated for houseplants.

By spring, if the plant looks to be outgrowing the pot, simply divide the plant (leaves and roots) and repot the second section.

Finally, snake plants are very easy to propagate. Simply cut a leaf from the plant and insert it into some potting soil. Water the soil and keep it moist until new growth appears.

Check out this essential guide to houseplants to learn more.