Soil provides the basis upon which our plants grow. When so many varieties of snake plant soil mixes are available, choosing just the right one can be a daunting process.
The information presented out there was so overwhelming when I first got started. This article breaks down the basics and explains how to choose the right soil mix for your snake plants.
Generally speaking, snake plants prefer a nutrient-rich and well-drained potting mix. This plant needs a dry substrate, so we need to make sure we use a well-draining medium. Potting soil mixed with cactus & succulent mix plus a handful of perlite shall do the trick. Snake plants need light soil, not garden soil.
Different plants will require different soil mixes. Some snake plants prefer moisture in their soil while others prefer it dry. You need to make sure you choose the right mix for your snake plants so that they thrive in your space.
Herein, we will be learning all about the right soil mix and that, in layman’s terms.
What kind of soil should I use for a snake plant?
People are always recommending X, Y, and Z brands of soil to someone looking for soil mix, but I decided that I would do things differently.
Before choosing a soil mix for our snake plant, we will first learn about the basic properties of soil and the factors we need to consider. Keeping that in mind, let’s look at some basic requirements of a soil snake plants require.
- Well-drained
- Aeration
- Nutrient-rich
A snake plant’s drainage needs to be our first priority when choosing the soil for it. Snake plants belong to the genus “Dracaena,” which has a succulent appearance.
Typically found in dry regions where the soil is dry all year round, they are indigenous to dry conditions. We can therefore conclude that snake plants prefer dry and well-drained soil. Your snake plant will suffer if the soil stays soggy and wet.
The second most important factor to keep in mind is the aeration of the soil. It is essential that the roots of the plant have space to breathe. If the soil is compacted, then the roots will suffer. This, in turn, may adversely affect the plant’s growth.
Nutrients in the soil are the last and most crucial factor to consider. Plants need nutrients in order to thrive.
The growth of the plant will suffer if the soil does not provide it with the nutrients it needs. Consider these nutrients like vitamins and minerals for the plants.
Just as our bodies need a good balance of minerals and vitamins to thrive, snake plants do the same.
We have covered all the basics concerning the soil for your snake plant, so now we can wrap everything up.
We have a special offer for you if you just want to learn about the scientific reasoning behind the soil mix and you don’t care about the science behind it.
Best soil mix for snake plant
Although snake plants are sturdy and versatile, you can’t put them in any pot and with any kind of soil and expect them to thrive. You need to provide your snake plant with an appropriate soil mix in order for it to grow.
A nutrient-rich , well-drained soil mix is essential to our success. You still need to remember, just because I told you these fundamentals doesn’t mean you can just throw a bag of any nutrient-rich soil at your snake plant and expect it to thrive.
Yes, even if the soil mix is imperfect, the snake plant will not die. As a result we need to put in a little more effort to grow snake plants that thrive in soil that is well-balanced for them.
How do I make my snake plant soil?
I finally developed these two mixes that work like a charm for me after experimenting for some time. It is possible to get away with a completely different soil mix, but these are the ones that worked best for me.
Recipe number 1:
- Usually I use Miracle Grow Indoor potting soil, 3/4 parts of organic potting soil.
- 1/4 part succulent soil mix (This cactus mix can also be used)
- One handful of compost
Recipe number 2:
- I usually use Miracle Grow Indoor potting mix 1/4 part potting soil
- 1/4 part of peat moss
- 1/2 part of perlite/coarse sand
A favorite of mine is the first soil mix. It is straightforward and simple at the same time. We will mix 3/4 part potting soil with 1/4 part succulent soil in this soil mix, which should make the soil well-drained and breathable.
Our soil will be made organically rich by mixing in a handful of compost. Don’t use too much compost since it can retain moisture for a longer period of time, which can be unhealthy for your snake plant.
There are also mixes of soil that can work just as well. I tried it once when I did not have succulent soil available, and it still worked well.
This soil mix will consist of one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part of perlite or coarse sand.
As a consequence, the soil will be organically rich, but it will also drain well making it perfect for snake plants.
Can I use cactus soil for snake plants?
It is possible to use soil from cactus and succulents for your snake plant. Ask your local nursery for their recommendations.
Almost all cactus soil lacks organic matter, which is essential for a snake plant. However, you can overcome this by mixing:
- 2 part of cactus soil
- 1 part peat moss
- A handful of compost
By adding some peat moss and compost, the soil will become nutrient-rich and organically rich. The soil will also retain some moisture, which is important.
Hoffman Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix is what I prefer, which contains some compost and a bit of peat moss so our snake plant can thrive.
Can snake plant grow in sand?
Snake plants can not be grown in sand alone. Sand is an essential component of many succulent and cactus mixes, as it is exceptionally well-drained.
But there is no water or nutrients in it. Therefore, your snake plant will be deprived of good nutrition.
As a result, preparations for snake plants include potting soil, compost, and peat moss.
When should I repot my snake plant?
It prefers smaller pots, but that doesn’t mean that the plant likes to be rootbound.
When the snake plant becomes root-bound, repot to a larger pot. Do not repot the snake plant unless it has outgrown its current pot.
The answer to the question of how to tell if your snake plant is root bound is quite easy!
You need to identify some of your plant’s visible cues. These include:
- Droopy leaves
- Soil dries up quickly.
- Stunted growth
- Spiraling roots surround the bottom
- Yellow or brown leaves
- Roots growing from drainage holes
You need to repot your snake plant if you notice any of these signs.
Before repotting, it is best to wait until spring or summer, as that is the growing season for most houseplants and their environment is ideal.
Best pot size for snake plant
Depending upon the plant’s size and growth, a snake plant can be grown between a 4′′ plant and an 18′′ plant. For a plant there is no perfect size. It depends on the current size of the plant and container it is in.
Repotting snake plants takes 1-2′′ larger pot between repots. Snake plants can last up to two years in the same pot.
Move your snake plants from a 6″ pot to a 7-8″ pot, for example.
You should never use a pot larger than 10′ for your snake plant, as that will be too big, and it will hinder its growth.
Final Thoughts
For snake plants to stay healthy and grow full, they need adequate soil. Despite the fact that they are a versatile and strong plant that can grow in different soil conditions, they prefer nutrient-rich and well-drained soil to thrive.
Mix potting soil and succulent soil in a ratio of (2:1) along with a handful of compost to create a custom mix for your snake plant.
This will provide your snake plant with proper drainage and nutrients for it to thrive.
This part of the article will provide the necessary information about a snake plant’s soil mix requirements. Should you have skipped directly to this part of the article, I strongly recommend it.
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