We all know that snake plants are tough, but sometimes these hardy plants do need a little bit of help. If you have a snake plant that is looking droopy or wilted, it might be time to give your plant some more water.
The signs of an underwatered snake plant can look like any number of things – from leaves curling and turning brown to the soil drying out and crumbling in your hand. Here, we’ll go over what to look for if you think your plant may not be getting enough water, as well as how to save it.
What are signs of overwatered snake plants?
If your plant is drooping and leaves are curling up, but the soil feels moist to the touch, probably are overwatering it. This can happen if there’s too much water in the saucer or tray underneath where your plant pot sits. If this has happened, check that all of the drainage holes on either side of the pot are open.
The Leaves are Wrinkling and Wilting
If your pot is too wet, the water will seep into the soil and cause it to become saturated. This can be a difficult situation that requires some more time and effort in order for you to save your plant! The first thing you want to do is remove as much of the excess water from the soil as you can. You’ll need to let the pot dry out before replacing it with fresh, moistened soil that drains well and is pH-balanced.
There are Brown Leaf Tips
This can either mean two things, one is that there’s too much water in the soil. The other is that there’s not enough potassium in your potting mix. You’ll want to add a slow-release fertilizer with plenty of this nutrient to help perk them back up again.
Leaves are Drooping
Leaves drooping and curling up is another sign that your plant is underwatered. See if there’s any water in the tray where the pot sits. If so, this may be causing too much moisture around your plant.
Soil Is Crumbly
Some plants may start to have crumbled, dried-out soil that is easy for you to break in your hand. Make sure that there are drainage holes.
Leaves Turning Yellow
Yellow leaves are a clear sign that not enough water is getting to them. Snake plants will tolerate low levels of light, but they need warm temperatures and plenty of moisture in order to thrive.
Roots and leaves are brittle
This condition is most likely because the soil is too dry. You can either water more often or use a wetter potting mix to help get some added moisture into your plant!
How can I tell if my plant is overwatered or underwater?
If you’re unsure of whether your plant is getting too much or too little water in general, check that all of the drainage holes on either side of the pot are open.
What should I do if my snake plant is not getting enough water?
If you think that your snake plant needs more water but aren’t sure where to start, try using an old toothbrush! You can unscrew the top of your plant’s pot and use a plastic straw to gently spray water onto the roots.
How to Revive Underwatered Snake Plant
Water
Water evenly to keep the soil wet. Allow it to dry between watering in order for roots to breathe and prevent root rot. Do not let the pot sit in standing water or allow plant foliage contact with liquid that has been sitting on a heated surface (such as a radiator). Check daily by touching the soil, it should feel moist but not wet.
Light
Keep out of the direct sun and away from drafts. A low-level light source is best, but snake plants can thrive in shade. They need warm temperatures to do so though – aim for 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime.
Temperature
Snake plants can tolerate low levels of light, but they need warmth to thrive. Aim for a daytime temperature around 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Humidity
Maintain moderately humid conditions with nighttime humidity above 40%.
Soil
Use a potting mix that has good drainage. The pot should have adequate space to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil should be loose, well-drained, and moist but not wet.
Fertilizer
Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with water-soluble fertilizer diluted by half or foliar feed monthly with a water-soluble fertilizer diluted by half.
Choose The Right Container
Snake plants do well in a pot that is wider and shallower, with good drainage. The pot should have adequate space to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil should be loose, well-drained, and moist but not wet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between overwatered and underwater?
A: If you notice that any of your pot’s drainage holes are clogged up or there is standing water in your saucer or tray It may be time to repot and give it more space.
Q. My snake plant doesn’t have a lot of leaves, what should I do?
A: It’s important to check that you’re watering your plant enough! If the soil feels cool and moist, but there are not as many leaves on top – it might mean they need more air. Try opening up any doors or windows in the room where they are located for a few minutes each day to allow them some fresh air.
Q: What type of snake plant should I get?
A: There are many different types of snake plants, but the most popular varieties include Mother-in-law’s Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata var. “Laurentii”), Hens and Chicks (Parlor Palm) (Chamaedorea elegans), Golden Snake Plant (Hylocereus undatus), Ribbon Ears/Cornstalk Dracaena(Dracaena deremensis “Massangeana”), Zebra Cornstalk or Red Stripe Dracaena(Dracaena deremensis “Lemon Lime”).