Read about the Things Snake Plants Hate that Most People Still Do. Avoid these habits and help your plant stay healthy and strong for years.
Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or mother-in-law’s tongue, are famous for being tough and low-maintenance. They’re perfect for beginners and busy plant lovers. But even though they seem easy to care for, many people still make mistakes that snake plants secretly hate. Let’s explore the Things Snake Plants Hate that Most People Still Do, without realizing they’re slowly hurting their snake plants.
Things Snake Plants Hate that Most People Still Do
1. Overwatering
Many people think watering their plants regularly is a sign of good care. However, snake plants do not like wet soil. They are succulents, which means they hold water in their thick leaves and do not need frequent watering. When you water them too much, the roots sit in soggy soil and start to rot. This is one of the most common reasons snake plants die. It’s always better to let the soil dry out completely before watering again. During winter, watering once every three to four weeks is often enough.
2. Using Pots Without Drainage
Snake plants need well-draining soil, but just as important is the right kind of pot. Many people place their plant in a decorative pot that doesn’t have a hole at the bottom. Without drainage, extra water has nowhere to go and stays stuck around the roots. This creates the perfect conditions for root rot. Even if you love fancy pots, it’s best to place the plant in a plastic nursery pot with drainage and then put that inside your decorative container.
3. Keeping It in Low Light for Too Long
Snake plants can survive in low light, which is one reason they’re so popular. But surviving and thriving are two different things. When left in a dark corner for too long, the leaves can become dull, thin, and weak. These plants actually enjoy a bit of bright, indirect sunlight each day. Placing them near a window, even one with filtered light, can help them grow stronger and keep their rich green color.
4. Exposing It to Cold Temperatures and Drafts
Another thing snake plants can’t handle well is cold air. People often place their plant near a door, window, or air conditioner without realizing that sudden drops in temperature can shock the plant. Snake plants are native to warm regions and dislike cold drafts. If the room falls below 10°C (50°F), the plant may develop soft or drooping leaves. To keep it safe, always place your snake plant in a warm, stable spot away from direct cold air.
5. Using the Wrong Soil
Many people use regular potting soil when planting their snake plant. While this works fine for many plants, it holds too much moisture for a succulent like Sansevieria. Regular soil can stay wet too long and lead to root problems. Snake plants do much better in cactus or succulent soil, which is lighter and drains quickly. You can also mix in sand or perlite to improve drainage.
6. Letting Dust Build Up
It’s easy to forget that plants can get dusty too. Over time, dust builds up on the long leaves of a snake plant, especially if it’s near a window or fan. Dusty leaves not only look dull, but also make it harder for the plant to absorb light. This affects its ability to make energy and stay healthy. Simply wiping the leaves with a damp cloth once in a while will keep them clean and help the plant “breathe” better.
7. Feeding Too Much Fertilizer
Some people try to speed up their snake plant’s growth by feeding it more fertilizer than it needs. However, snake plants are slow growers and don’t need much food. Overfeeding can actually harm them. The extra fertilizer may burn the roots and cause yellow patches on the leaves. Feeding once or twice during the warmer months—spring and summer—is more than enough. Skip fertilizing in winter.
8. Ignoring Early Signs of Stress
One of the worst habits is ignoring signs that something is wrong. Soft, mushy spots, drooping leaves, or yellow patches are the plant’s way of saying it needs help. These symptoms are typically caused by excessive water, inadequate lighting, or cold air. When you notice changes, don’t wait. Check the soil, location, and temperature immediately so you can address the problem before it worsens.
9. Cutting the Leaves the Wrong Way
It might seem easy to cut a leaf if it’s too long or has a damaged tip, but cutting it in the wrong spot can cause more harm than good. Many people cut the top of the leaf or make rough cuts without using clean tools. This creates open wounds and stress for the plant. If you must trim a leaf, cut the whole leaf cleanly at the base using sharp, clean scissors or a knife.
