A snake plant, also known as a Sansevieria or mother-in-law tongue, is one of the longest lasting plants you can grow at home. They require little maintenance or care. Even when neglected, they can grow well. Many people do not really know about them, however. Despite being very important, light can be a difficult concept to grasp.
Snake Plant Light Requirements
To grow snake plants, medium intensity natural light is optimal, with indirect light being the best. For growth, it is essential. Additionally, artificial lights can also be used to grow them. The only difference is that the growth rate won’t be the same.
The Different Light conditions for Snake Plants
Despite snake plants being able to survive in different conditions, it is still important to create the right environment for them to thrive. They are known to grow in a variety of light intensities, from low to high. It is still best for them to use a medium bright light.
Low Light
Snake plants don’t care if they are placed in shady corners or under low light. Their ability to tolerate low light makes them unique among plants. However, this does not mean they will grow well as the growth may be slowed down in comparison to places with high light.
A snake plant cannot die without light if it is grown in a dark corner of your house, for instance. It is only possible that the plants will not grow as colorful as those that are placed in indirect sunlight. They are good for bedrooms, so if you want to have them in your bedroom, feel free. Remember not to place them in rooms without windows or natural light.
Medium Light
Snake plants grow best in medium light. They prefer natural light. They grow best in indirect sunlight. I would recommend a place near an east-facing window, where plenty of sunlight enters in the morning. The corner or center of a room is also a good choice since it receives little direct light.
High Light
Snake plants originated from hot climates, which makes them well adapted to high light levels. It is possible to grow them under full sun. This does not mean that the full and direct sunlight is good for them, as it can cause the leaves to burn. Not only that, but the plant can also look droopy in these kinds of conditions. Additionally, indirect sunlight is best.
How to Grow Snake Plants with Artificial Light
It is possible to grow snake plants indoors if there is enough artificial light. The artificial lights can be used to grow many houseplants, but they are not as effective as full-time sunlight.
The growth of snake plants is affected differently by different kinds of artificial lighting.
Fluorescent Lights
Fluorescent lights have more blue wavelengths in their light spectrum. Foliage appears to benefit from the blue end of the spectrum. You can use them with warm or full spectrum bulbs, which have more red wavelengths. Red light ends can be used to form roots. The soft white fluorescent tubes can also be used.
As the fluorescent light is cool, you can place it near the houseplant. To get the best results, you should place them a couple of feet away from foliage. It is also cheap and widely used.
Incandescent Lights
Red wavelengths provided by incandescent lighting are good for stimulating root growth. You can use them in addition to fluorescent lights. You should use one third incandescent light to two thirds fluorescent light wattage to get the best balance. Incandescent lights generate more heat, so they must be placed farther from the plants than fluorescent lights.
LED Lights
Low-heat LED lights are also those made of Light emitting Diodes. New technologies are able to be customized, and they are new technologies. You can purchase LED light bulbs that emit both the blue and red wavelengths needed for the snake plant to grow.
LED lights are known for their long lifespan and energy efficiency. Their price is higher than other ones, though.
Halogen Lights
All-encompassing light spectrum is provided by halogen lighting. The energy efficiency of fluorescent lights is still better, however. In order to keep the plants safe, it is important to keep them away from them since they produce a lot of heat.
Snake Plant Symptoms That Indicate They Need More or Less Light
When snake plants drop leaves and do not look good, it is a sign that they need more light. Direct sunlight, however, is not allowed. For them, indirect natural light is sufficient.
The snake plant needs less light if the leaves start to look thin or black. Crispy brown edges will form on the sharp edges. In order to make everything better, it is recommended that you move the plant to the darker corner.
Solving the problem should not be difficult for you. You should, however, seek assistance from someone who knows what they are doing well if it is difficult for you. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance.