Snake plants, also known as Sansevierias, and viper’s bowstring hemp are among the most hardy houseplants. They are easy to take care of because of their tough nature.
A low-maintenance plant, these are. It is almost as if these hardy plants thrive on neglect.
Snake plant owners often don’t realize how much light snake plants need.
What Are the Light Requirements for Snake Plants?
To grow, snake plants need medium-intensity natural light, and indirect light is best. Artificial light can also make them grow, but the rate of growth won’t be as rapid.
There are Different Ways to Light Snake Plants
Despite having the ability to survive in different conditions, snake plants need the right environment in order to thrive. Various lighting intensities can be used with snake plants. Lights of medium to high brightness, however, are preferred.
Conditions of Low Light
Low light and shady corners are ideal for snake plants. Unlike most plants, these versatile plants can tolerate lower light levels. In these low-light areas, their growth rate may be a little slower.
It will not die from the lack of light if you place it in a dim corner of your office, for instance. However, it won’t grow as colorful as another of the same kind grown in indirect sunlight. The plants do make good bedroom plants.
Because of this, snake plants should not be kept in rooms without windows.
Conditions of Medium Light
A medium amount of light is ideal for snake plants. Indirect sunlight is ideal for growing them since they prefer natural light.
The best place would be near a window facing east, which lets in plenty of sunlight in the morning. It’s best to place a snake plant in a corner or in the center of a room that isn’t exposed directly to light.
Conditions of High Light
High light levels are not a problem for snake plants. Sunlight is necessary for their growth. Place your plants in direct sunlight, however, if you have been growing them indoors. In addition, it can cause the plant to look a little droopy.
It is always better to provide indirect sunlight for your plants.
With Artificial Light, How Can Snake Plants be Grown?
A good amount of artificial lighting allows these plants to thrive indoors. Even though artificial lights can be used to grow some houseplants, they cannot replace sunlight completely.
Snake plants are affected differently by the different types of artificial lighting.
Fluorescent Lighting
The light spectrum of fluorescent bulbs contains more blue wavelengths. It is believed that blue light is conducive to normal foliage growth.
It is also possible to use them with “warm” or “full spectrum” light bulbs that have more red light wavelengths. The red light end is necessary for root formation. Soft white fluorescent tubes can also be used.
A fluorescent light is cool enough to be placed near your houseplant. You can achieve the best results by placing the source a couple feet away from the foliage. In addition, it is the most popular and economical option.
Lights that are Incandescent
Red wavelengths from incandescent lights stimulate root formation. In addition to fluorescent lighting, use incandescent lighting.
It is best to use one-third incandescent light and two-thirds fluorescent light wattage.
A fluorescent light generates less heat than an incandescent light. To prevent damage to your plant, move them further away.
LED Lights
An additional low-heat light source is the light-emitting diode (LED). LED technology is innovative and customizable. LED bulbs can produce both the blue and red wavelengths your plants need to grow.
The long life and energy efficiency of LED lights makes them an excellent choice. The downside of these options is their cost.
Halogen Lights
Full spectrum light is provided by halogen lights. Although they are cost-effective, fluorescent lights are more energy-efficient. Additionally, they generate a lot of heat, so you’d have to place them farther away from the plant.
How to Tell If Your Snake Plants Needs More or Less Light
When your snake plant looks sad with downward sagging leaves, this is a sign it needs more light. You shouldn’t put it in direct sunlight suddenly. It’s okay to use indirect natural light.
Your snake plant needs less light if its leaves begin to thin or blacken. Eventually, the sharp edges will turn brown and crispy. You should move the snake plant to a slightly darker corner in order to fix that flimsy look.
Sum Up!
These durable houseplants will endure even if you’re a novice gardener or simply forgetful about plants. Snake plants are beautiful and adaptable.
It’s easy to grow and care for these evergreen plants. The best light for them is medium, natural light. Regardless of where you place them, make sure that they are in indirect sunlight.
