How to save a frozen snake plant? Snake plants can still live after freezing only their leaves. But if the entire root system is frozen to death, it is unlikely to recover. Trim the frozen leaves and part of the roots using clean scissors if the roots are not dead. Keeping them warm is important after taking rescue measures.
Snake Plants are becoming increasingly popular house guests thanks to their near indestructible qualities. This unusual, easy-care houseplant is also known commonly as Snake Plant / Mother-in-Law’s Tongue. In addition to its upright, erect leaf habit, this plant also blends in with almost every decor in the home, whether it’s traditional or modern. However, due to habitual neglect or is an accidental event, you may one day find that your lovely snake plant is frozen to death! Now let’s see what you can do if the situation has developed that way.
Cold Damage
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The snake plant is a tropical plant that cannot withstand freezing or cold temperatures. Growing snake plants requires a temperature of between 50°F (10°C) and (23°C) 75°F. Curling as a sign of stress is their first reaction if the temperature is significantly lower. After 1-4 weeks of being exposed to severe cold, snake plants develop white mushy areas on their leaves. Snake plants can suffer from this problem if their leaves come into contact with a frosty window.
How To Save Your Frozen Snake Plants
How to save a frozen snake plant? You can try these three methods if the damage hasn’t reached the roots.
- Pruning
In case the root system is not completely dead, you can remove the frozen leaves. Don’t be hesitant to prune if the plant is frostbitten; simply cut it off. Make sure that the scissors are disinfected before you use them.
- Disinfection
It is not allowed to enter the basin directly after trimming. Disinfectants should be used for disinfection because otherwise, they will be contaminated after entering the basin. Despite that, the old soil that was used before had better also be changed into new, and the plant that disinfects finally undertakes the basin.
- Keep them warm
It is important to stay warm and to keep warm after taking a series of rescue measures. Keep the temperatures below 15 °C and not watering too much is the best practice. It is possible that the plant will again become frostbitten if the temperature is still very low.
Protecting Your Snake Plant In Winter
Now let’s make sure that this pollution-fighting evergreen runs at its best for you during the winter months. As a note of caution, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Light: From bright light to full sun. Despite its preference for bright light, it is also tolerant of low lighting.
- Water: During the winter, only water once every 10-14 days. The water should be at room temperature. Water the sides of the container, avoiding the leaves while ensuring that all the roots are adequately hydrated. The soil should stay moist in the growing season (Spring-Summer), but on the dry side during winter. The soil should be watered just enough to prevent it from drying out completely in winter.
- Humidity: The mother-in-law’s tongue will tolerate dry air as long as it is not exposed to drafts.
- Temperature: Room temperatures, on average, range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit/16-24 degrees Celsius. Although it can tolerate fluctuating temperatures, it cannot withstand extreme cold. Don’t wait for the frost to return to bring it indoors.
- Fertilizer: The winter months are not the time to do this. During the growing season (Spring-Summer), feed succulent plants every 15-30 days with a balanced fertilizer. When autumn comes, reduce it by half.
Conclusion
How to save a frozen snake plant? Snake plants can still live after freezing only their leaves. But if the entire root system is frozen to death, it is unlikely to recover. Trim the frozen leaves and part of the roots using clean scissors if the roots are not dead. Keeping them warm is important after taking rescue measures.
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