One of the most stylish and architectural striking plants around, Sansevieria or Snake plant is an incredibly popular houseplant. Tough, beautiful, and almost indestructible, Dracaena trifasciata or Mother-In-Law’s Tongue plant makes for a highly interesting addition to any home or office. Featuring stiff, sword-like leaves, this resilient plant can rise between 6 inches to several feet and is known to boost curb appeal in the setting. One of the most unique features of Sansevieria ‘snake’ plants is that it can convert carbon dioxide into oxygen even at night and can help remove toxic air pollutants. Snake plants can also act as an effective defense against airborne allergies. If you’re considering bringing live Sansevieria plants to your space, then here are a few care tips and instructions.
A popular cultivar of Sansevieria, Variegated Hahni or Bird’s Nest Snake Plant is medium short and stubby and grows no taller than 12″ inches with 6″-8″ inches being the norm.
Sansevieria Plant Care
An ideal choice for beginners as it is very difficult to kill them, snake plants grow well in containers as well as on the floor or on tabletop displays. The ideal condition for snake plants is warm weather and they absolutely struggle in cold conditions.
Light and Temperature Requirements – Sansevieria plants prefer indirect but steady light. Partial sun works best for them. However, they can still grow in darker corners or in brighter window areas. Sansevieria plants grow best between temperature range 70- and 90-degrees Fahrenheit. They die when subjected to frost.
Soil Conditions – It is recommended that you use a regular cactus and succulent mix with excellent draining capabilities (PH 4,5 to 8,5). Snake plants do well in sandier soils and prefer a loose, well-drained potting mix.
Water Requirements – Sansevieria plants require watering once every two weeks during summer and once every 6-8 weeks during winter. You need to ensure that the soil is dried up before watering them. It is recommended that you under-water the plant as too much water can harm it.
Food Requirements – Feed your Snake plant by mixing half a teaspoon of liquid food (ideally for cactus/succulents) with water every two months. Sansevieria plants do not require fertilizers in the winter.
