Learn how to create a wick watering system for African violets and other plants. Wick watering, which means watering from the bottom, is a good way to ensure that plants that need a lot of water, like African violets, get enough water.
Welcome to HealthyHousePlants.com, where we teach you all about gardening indoors. If you’d like to support my show and get help growing your houseplants, check out my Patreon below.
Today, we have a plant care video on Sansevieria, commonly known as the snake plant. This video was requested by a subscriber, Carolyn Copa. As you can see, this plant is a real eye-catcher. It’s also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue. It’s a really easy-to-grow plant, which is one reason why I love it. It’s a great beginner plant and very striking.
The common name “snake plant” comes from its long, sword-like, upright leaves that are banded in various colors. This one has gray-silver splotching with a lime green border. Others have creamy colors or yellows. The plant looks reminiscent of a snake with its striping and mottling. In its native habitat, Sansevieria can grow 6 feet tall, but indoors it usually reaches 2 to 3 feet.
Sansevieria is very versatile in terms of decorating and fits into almost any decor scheme. It looks especially striking in contemporary modern decor. Under ideal conditions, it produces a fragrant, cream-colored flower at night on more mature plants. Though often referred to as a succulent, Sansevieria is actually a member of the Agave family. The plant is native to the dry, rocky habitats of tropical Africa and parts of Arabia and India. Its botanical name was recently changed from Sansevieria to Dracaena, but most people still call it Sansevieria or snake plant.
You’ll have luck growing this beautiful plant in your indoor garden if you keep the following growing tips in mind:
Lighting: Place this plant just about anywhere. It will tolerate very low light to bright, sunny rooms. The more light Sansevieria receives, the more vivid the leaf colors will be, and the more it will grow. Plants grown in dim locations tend to grow slowly and are less healthy. Ideal lighting is medium to bright light, but the plant also does well under full-spectrum lighting. To get medium-bright light, place it in front of an eastern window.
Watering: Sansevieria is accustomed to dry tropical climates and will quickly succumb to root or crown rot if overwatered. Overwatering is watering too frequently, not too much at once. Only water when the soil has dried out, sometimes several weeks apart. Use a moisture meter to determine dryness, and drench the plant when you do water, allowing water to run out the bottom of the pot. Avoid wetting the foliage and keep saucers clear of accumulated water to prevent rot and salt buildup. However, do not forget to water the plant for too long. If the foliage becomes shriveled and puckered, water more frequently.
Fertilizing: Sansevieria isn’t a heavy feeder. Fertilize twice a year in early spring and early summer with an all-purpose organic food. Liquid or powder fertilizers that mix with water work well.
Humidity: Snake plants come from dry areas and do not require high humidity. They thrive in 35 to 50% humidity, which covers most homes.
Temperature: Sansevieria does well in warm temperatures, ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand cooler temperatures and temperature swings, making it a good starter plant for indoor gardeners.
Repotting: Sansevieria has a small root system and does well in the same pot for many years. Repot only when necessary, when the plant outgrows the pot. Use a cactus mix or other well-draining soil with plenty of pumice, perlite, or a little sand. When repotting, move up only one pot size to prevent root rot.
Pruning: Pruning is rarely needed, but remove any yellow, withered, or damaged leaves with sharp pruners or scissors at the soil level.
Pests and Diseases: Pests are rarely a problem, but mealybugs can occasionally appear. Treat them by spraying with 91% isopropyl alcohol. The biggest issue for this plant is root rot, which can be prevented by following proper watering guidelines.
Now you know everything you need to grow this gorgeous, easy-to-grow plant. Add it to your indoor garden collection for its eye-catching appearance and enjoyable growth.
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