Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or Dracaena trifasciata, are a popular choice for houseplants due to their hardiness and low maintenance requirements.
However, even the most resilient plants can experience problems, and a dying snake plant can be a cause for concern for any plant parent. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to revive your plant and get it back to its healthy state.
Understanding the snake plant is the first step in helping a dying one. Snake plants are succulent plants that store water in their leaves, making them drought-tolerant and able to survive in various lighting conditions.
However, they are susceptible to root rot and other problems caused by overwatering, poor soil drainage, and environmental factors.
Recognizing the signs of a dying snake plant is crucial in determining the best course of action to save it. Some common symptoms include yellowing leaves, drooping or wilting, and a foul odor from the soil.
Proper watering techniques, potting and soil requirements, lighting and environment needs, dealing with pests and diseases, and nutrition and fertilization are all important factors to consider when trying to revive a dying snake plant.
By taking the time to understand these elements and addressing any issues, you can help your plant recover and thrive.
Understanding the Snake Plant
Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria, are popular houseplants due to their low maintenance and unique appearance.
They are native to tropical regions of West Africa and are known for their drought-resistant nature. This succulent plant has long, sword-like leaves that grow upright and can reach up to 4 feet tall.
Snake plants are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them a great addition to any office or living space. They are also known to bloom, producing small, fragrant, white flowers in the summer.
One of the reasons snake plants are so popular with beginners is because they are easy to care for. They can survive in low light conditions and do not require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering can be detrimental to the plant’s health, causing the roots to rot. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Another important aspect to consider when caring for snake plants is the soil. They require well-draining soil that is gritty and not too rich in organic matter. This helps prevent root rot and allows the plant to thrive in its natural habitat.
Recognizing Signs of a Dying Snake Plant
Snake plants are known for being low maintenance, but they still require proper care to thrive. If you notice any signs of distress in your snake plant, it’s important to act quickly to prevent it from dying.
Here are some common signs that your snake plant may be dying:
1. Brown Spots on Leaves
One of the most common signs of a dying snake plant is brown spots on the leaves. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures.
If you notice brown spots on your snake plant’s leaves, it’s important to investigate the cause and take action to correct the problem.
2. Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves are another common sign of a dying snake plant. This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures.
If your snake plant’s leaves are turning yellow, it’s important to check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
3. Drooping Leaves
Drooping leaves are a sign that your snake plant is not getting enough water. This can be caused by underwatering or poor drainage.
If you notice your snake plant’s leaves are drooping, it’s important to water it thoroughly and ensure that the soil is draining properly.
4. Curling Leaves
Curling leaves are a sign that your snake plant is not getting enough water or is being exposed to too much direct sunlight.
If you notice your snake plant’s leaves are curling, it’s important to adjust your watering schedule and move the plant to a location with indirect sunlight.
5. Discoloration
Discoloration of the leaves can be a sign of a dying snake plant. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including pests, diseases, or exposure to extreme temperatures.
If you notice discoloration on your snake plant’s leaves, it’s important to investigate the cause and take action to correct the problem.
6. Black Spots
Black spots on the leaves can be a sign of a fungal or bacterial infection. If you notice black spots on your snake plant’s leaves, it’s important to treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide to prevent the infection from spreading.
7. Mushy Leaves
Mushy leaves are a sign that your snake plant is suffering from root rot. This is caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
If you notice mushy leaves on your snake plant, it’s important to repot the plant in fresh soil and ensure that the soil is draining properly.
8. Wilting
Wilting is a sign that your snake plant is not getting enough water. This can be caused by underwatering or poor drainage. If you notice your snake plant’s leaves are wilting, it’s important to water it thoroughly and ensure that the soil is draining properly.
By recognizing these signs of a dying snake plant, you can take action to save your plant and prevent it from dying.
Common Problems and Their Causes
Snake plants are generally hardy and low-maintenance, but they can still experience problems that lead to their decline. Here are some common issues and their causes:
1. Overwatering or Underwatering
Overwatering or underwatering is one of the most common causes of snake plant death. Snake plants are drought-resistant succulents that prefer well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
When they are overwatered, their roots can rot, and the plant can develop yellow leaves that eventually turn brown and mushy. On the other hand, when they are underwatered, their leaves can become dry and crispy.
2. Overfertilization
Snake plants do not require frequent fertilization, and overfertilization can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil that can harm the plant’s roots. Symptoms of overfertilization include brown leaf tips, leaf burn, and stunted growth.
3. Temperature and Humidity
Snake plants prefer temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate low humidity.
However, they can suffer from cold drafts or heat stress if exposed to extreme temperature variations.
If the leaves of a snake plant are turning yellow or brown, it may be a sign that the plant is experiencing temperature stress.
4. Light
Snake plants can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, but they prefer bright, indirect light. If they are exposed to too much direct sunlight, their leaves can become scorched and turn yellow or brown. On the other hand, if they are not getting enough light, their leaves can become pale and yellow.
5. Pests and Infestations
Snake plants can be susceptible to mealybugs, mites, scale insects, and thrips. These pests can cause damage to the plant’s leaves and stems, and can also spread fungal diseases. Signs of pest infestations include webbing, sticky residue, and distorted leaves.
6. Fungal Diseases
Snake plants can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and mold. These diseases can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or high humidity. Symptoms of fungal diseases include brown or black spots on the leaves, mushy or rotting roots, and a foul odor.
How to Revive a Dying Snake Plant
Snake plants are known for their hardiness and resilience, but they can still fall victim to a variety of issues that can cause them to wither and die. If you notice that your snake plant is looking unhealthy, there are several steps you can take to revive it and help it recover.
- Identify the Problem
The first step in reviving a dying snake plant is to identify the underlying issue that is causing it to decline. Some common signs that your snake plant is in distress include:
- Brown or yellow leaves
- Wilting or drooping leaves
- Root rot or other fungal issues
- Overwatering or underwatering
Once you have identified the issue, you can take steps to address it and help your snake plant recover.
- Adjust Watering Habits
One of the most common issues that can cause a snake plant to die is overwatering. Snake plants prefer to be kept on the dry side, and they can easily develop root rot if they are watered too frequently.
If you suspect that your snake plant is suffering from overwatering, reduce the frequency of watering and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
On the other hand, if your snake plant is wilting or drooping, it may be underwatered. In this case, increase the frequency of watering and make sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Repot the Plant
If your snake plant is suffering from root rot or other fungal issues, it may be necessary to repot the plant to give it a fresh start.
To repot a snake plant, gently remove it from its current pot and inspect the roots for any signs of damage or decay. Trim away any damaged roots with a clean pair of scissors, and replant the snake plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Provide Adequate Light
Snake plants prefer bright, indirect light, and they can struggle if they are kept in low-light conditions.
If your snake plant is looking unhealthy, try moving it to a brighter location or providing it with supplemental light from a grow light.
- Fertilize the Plant
Finally, if your snake plant is struggling to recover, you may want to consider fertilizing it to provide it with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package carefully to avoid over-fertilizing.
By following these steps and providing your snake plant with the care it needs, you can help it recover from a variety of issues and thrive once again.
Proper Watering Techniques
One of the most important factors in reviving a dying snake plant is proper watering techniques. Overwatering or underwatering can both lead to the plant’s demise. Snake plants are drought-resistant, and they prefer to be slightly dry between watering.
Watering Frequency
Snake plants do not require frequent watering. In fact, they can survive for weeks without water. The frequency of watering depends on the environment and the potting mix.
A well-draining potting mix will dry out faster than a heavy mix, and a plant in a hot, dry environment will need more water than a plant in a cool, humid environment.
As a general rule, snake plants should be watered every two to six weeks.
Signs of Overwatering
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of a dying snake plant. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a foul odor.
If the soil is waterlogged, it’s a sign that the plant has been overwatered. To fix an overwatered snake plant, repot it in fresh, well-draining soil and reduce watering frequency.
Signs of Underwatering
Underwatering is another common cause of a dying snake plant. Signs of underwatering include dry, crispy leaves and a wilted appearance.
To fix an underwatered snake plant, water it thoroughly and increase watering frequency.
Watering Techniques
When watering a snake plant, it’s important to water thoroughly and let the excess water drain out of the pot. The plant should not sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
A watering can with a narrow spout can help direct the water to the soil and avoid getting water on the leaves.
Neglect
Snake plants are hardy and can tolerate neglect, but they still need some care to thrive. Neglecting a snake plant for too long can lead to a dying plant. It’s important to check the plant regularly and water when the soil is dry.
Proper watering techniques are essential for reviving a dying snake plant. By following these tips, you can help your plant recover and thrive.
Potting and Soil Requirements
When it comes to potting a snake plant, it’s important to select a pot that is wider than it is deep. This will help prevent the plant from tipping over due to its top-heavy nature. The pot should also have a drainage hole or holes to ensure proper drainage of excess water.
It’s recommended to use a well-draining soil mix for snake plants, as they are susceptible to root rot if left in standing water. A good potting mix for snake plants will consist of a combination of peat moss, perlite, and sand.
When repotting a snake plant, it’s important to gently remove it from its current pot and loosen any tangled roots. The plant should then be placed in the new pot and covered with fresh potting soil.
To ensure proper drainage, it’s recommended to place a drip tray underneath the pot to catch any excess water. It’s important to empty the drip tray regularly to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water.
Lighting and Environment Needs
Snake plants are known for their adaptability and resilience, but they do have specific lighting and environment needs to thrive. It is important to understand these needs to help revive a dying snake plant.
Lighting Needs
Snake plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant, causing the leaves to burn and turn yellow. If the snake plant is not getting enough light, the leaves may become limp and droopy.
To provide the right amount of light, move the plant to a location where it can get bright, indirect light. If the plant is in a low light area, gradually move it towards a brighter area to avoid shocking the plant. If the plant is getting too much sunlight, move it to a location with less direct sunlight.
Environment Needs
In addition to lighting, snake plants also have specific environment needs. They prefer temperatures above 50°F and do not do well in cold drafts. They also prefer humid environments.
To provide the right environment for a snake plant, ensure that the room temperature is above 50°F and avoid placing the plant in drafty areas. To increase humidity, place a tray of water near the plant or mist the leaves with water.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Snake plants are generally low maintenance and hardy plants, but they can still fall prey to pests and diseases. Common pests that can infest snake plants include mealybugs, mites, scale insects, and thrips. These pests can cause discoloration, deformation, and even death of the plant.
Fungal diseases are also a common problem that can affect snake plants. Symptoms of fungal diseases include yellowing, wilting, and mold growth. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that can affect snake plants.
It typically occurs when low light, cool temperatures, and high humidity combine. While the fungus does not directly harm the plant, it limits photosynthesis and is unsightly to look at.
When dealing with pests and diseases, it is important to first quarantine the affected plant to prevent the spread of the infestation or disease to other plants. Remove any dead or diseased plant material and dispose of it properly.
There are several treatments that can be used to control pests and diseases in snake plants. For mealybugs and scale insects, a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol can be used to remove the pests from the plant.
Mites and thrips can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fungal diseases can be treated with a fungicide spray.
Prevention is key when it comes to pests and diseases in snake plants. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation or disease, avoiding overwatering, and providing proper lighting and ventilation can help keep the plant healthy and pest-free.
Nutrition and Fertilization
Snake plants require proper nutrition and fertilization to thrive. If a snake plant is dying, it may be due to a lack of nutrients in the soil. Fertilizing the plant can help provide the necessary nutrients to revive it.
Fertilization
Snake plants benefit from a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. It is important not to overfertilize the plant, as this can harm the roots and cause the plant to die. Overfertilization can also lead to burnt leaves and stunted growth.
To fertilize a snake plant, dilute the fertilizer in water according to the instructions on the package. Apply the diluted fertilizer to the soil once a month during the growing season, which is typically from spring to early fall.
Nutrients
Snake plants require several nutrients to grow and thrive. These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen is essential for leaf growth, phosphorus is necessary for root development, and potassium helps the plant resist diseases and stress.
If a snake plant is lacking in nutrients, it may show signs such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. In this case, fertilizing the plant can help provide the necessary nutrients to revive it.
It is important to note that snake plants can also suffer from overwatering, which can lead to root rot and nutrient deficiencies. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain proper watering practices and ensure the soil is well-draining.
Propagation of Snake Plants
Snake plants are easy to propagate, making them a popular choice for sharing with friends or expanding your own collection. There are several ways to propagate snake plants, including division, leaf cuttings, and rhizome division.
Division
Division is the easiest way to propagate snake plants that have grown too big for their pots. To divide a snake plant, remove the entire plant from its pot and use a sharp knife or pruner to cut the root ball into sections.
Each section should have at least one healthy leaf and root system. Replant the sections in fresh soil and water thoroughly.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are another way to propagate snake plants. To propagate using leaf cuttings, cut a healthy leaf from the plant and divide it into several smaller sections.
Each section should have a small piece of the leaf and a short stem. Place the cuttings in water or soil and keep them moist until roots develop.
Rhizome Division
Rhizome division is a more advanced way to propagate snake plants. To propagate using rhizome division, remove the entire plant from its pot and carefully separate the rhizomes, which are the underground stems that produce new growth.
Each rhizome should have at least one healthy leaf and root system. Replant the rhizomes in fresh soil and water thoroughly.
Propagation can be a fun and rewarding way to expand your collection of snake plants. With a little patience and care, you can easily propagate your snake plant and share it with others.
Conclusion
A dying snake plant can be nursed back to health with proper care and attention. It is important to identify the symptoms of a dying snake plant, such as brown leaves, drooping, and rootboundness, in order to address the underlying problem.
One of the most common reasons for a dying snake plant is overwatering. Snake plants prefer well-draining soil, and too much water can lead to root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant.
On the other hand, underwatering can also lead to a dying snake plant. It is important to find the right balance and only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Another factor that can contribute to a dying snake plant is poor lighting. Snake plants thrive in bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate low-light conditions. If a snake plant is not getting enough light, it may start to droop or lose its color.
In addition to these factors, snake plants can also be affected by pests and diseases. Common problems include spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections. Regularly inspecting the plant and treating any issues promptly can help prevent a dying snake plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my snake plant is healthy or unhealthy?
Healthy snake plants have upright, firm leaves that are green with yellow borders. Unhealthy snake plants have leaves that are drooping, yellowing, or browning. If the leaves are soft and mushy, it may indicate overwatering or root rot. If the leaves are dry and crispy, it may indicate underwatering.
What should I do if my snake plant is dying from the bottom up?
If the leaves on your snake plant are dying from the bottom up, it may indicate root rot. To save your plant, carefully remove it from its pot and inspect the roots. Cut away any brown or mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh soil. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
What are the signs of overwatering a snake plant and how can I save it?
Signs of overwatering in a snake plant include yellowing leaves, soft and mushy leaves, and a foul smell coming from the soil. To save an overwatered snake plant, remove it from its pot and gently remove any excess water from the soil. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Repot the plant in fresh soil if necessary.
How can I save a snake plant that is dying after repotting?
If your snake plant is dying after repotting, it may be due to shock from the transplant. To save your plant, make sure it is getting the appropriate amount of light and water. Do not fertilize the plant until it has fully recovered. You can also try adding a rooting hormone to the soil to encourage new growth.
What is the best way to save a snake plant leaf that is dying?
If a single leaf on your snake plant is dying, carefully cut it off at the base of the plant. Make sure to use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. This will allow the plant to focus its energy on healthy growth.
What can I do to prevent my snake plant leaves from turning brown and soft?
To prevent snake plant leaves from turning brown and soft, make sure to water the plant sparingly and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Do not overwater the plant or allow it to sit in standing water. Make sure the plant is getting enough light, but not direct sunlight.
Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below