5 Superb Facts and Guide For Choosing Snake Plant as Houseplant in 2021


Choosing Snake plant? Are You Sure? Why not!

Sansevierias, also known as snake plants or mother-in-law’s tongue….

…have gained in popularity, and rightly so. Its striking lines and hardiness make them perfect for even black thumbed houseplants. 

Let me tell you, choosing snake plant is the most hardest thing I have ever experience.

You can also use them to improve the air quality in your home.

Here’s how to keep them healthy.

First thing first, let me tell you about the snake plant itself.

Simply put, sansevieria is a tough houseplant to kill.

Snake plants are versatile, classic houseplants with sword-like foliage. 

As the most tolerant of all decorative plants Sansevieria…

…can survive the harshest growing conditions abuse and neglect.

The great thing about this plant is that it’s a great plant for forgetful gardeners…

…and it’s an excellent air purifier plant for indoor environments.

Choosing snake plant is sure one of a challenge!

With this post, I hope you will now how to choosing snake plant correctly!

Now lets hear the story of Jake, of choosing snake plant as his houseplant

Let us hear Jake’s story

I looked at the clock, it was 10:30.

I had just put my lunch in the fridge and closed up for the day.

It’s Friday night, so I don’t have work tomorrow!

But there were still a few chores to do before I could go home…

As I walked back into my kitchen, one of our new houseplants caught my eye.

A snake plant, I am very happy seeing this little plant growing and I am choosing snake plant…

..because its easy to care of it!

It was growing happily on an old terracotta pot that we found in the basement storage room.

We got it because our old one died last week from overwatering.

This is our first time trying out this new type of plant which has helped me learn more about plants.

They need sunlight or else they get weak and die quickly.

Noted it before you choosing snake plant as your houseplant.

Despite being a resilient succulent that can grow from 6 inches to several feet, snake plants have a number of health benefits.

Household plants are often strategically placed for decoration and to maintain good Feng Shui.

But did you know that some of these same plants also have some health benefits?

You might be surprised to learn that snake plants bring both health benefits and beauty to your home.

Keep reading to discover the snake plant’s benefits how to care for one, and how to keep it alive.

And finally you will know how to choosing snake plant as your houseplant.

Choosing snake plant
credit: https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-snake-plant-sansieveria/

Snake plants are also known for their ability to help remove toxic air pollutants. Though in small contributions, snake plants can absorb cancer-causing pollutants, including CO2, benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.”

Cynthia Taylor Chavoustie, MPAS, PA-C, experienced physician assistant specializing in family medicine and gastroenterology

Sansevieria Trifasciata Is A Unique Plant, You Know Why?

Did you ever wonder why there are no artificial snake plants?

That’s because the real thing is unkillable and survives in almost any growing environment.

We partner with vendors to help you find relevant products.

If you buy something from a vendor we link to, we may earn a commission, as I brought this together…

..I realized our readers didn’t need a Sansevieria growing guide.

We should take a good look at what we do not want to do with snake plants.

Like many house plants, snake plants thrive when neglected and suffer from too much affection.

You must noted this before choosing snake plant.

Choosing snake plant 2
credit: https://www.trees.com/house-plants/snake-plant-laurentii

Chill, Low-Maintenance Plants

If you’re looking for low maintenance indoor decor..

..consider a snake plant.

Our gardening efforts are now focused indoors as the holidays are over and temperatures continue to drop.

Indoor gardening isn’t impossible despite a busy schedule or challenges from the past.

Add snake plants..

..also known as mother-in-law’s tongues or devil’s tongues, and botanically known as Sansevieria, to your indoor decor.

 The tough plant can tolerate all types of growing conditions, as well as neglect.

Despite its preference for bright light, it can tolerate low light as long as the soil is not overwatered.

As a result, it is a great choice for the office, new and young gardeners, and any indoor  garden setting.

NASA research has found snake plants improve our indoor air quality..

..by removing toxins found in manufactured items such as formaldehyde and benzene.

Growing inside, tall varieties can reach a height of two to three feet.

When overwatered or grown in too little light..

.they can become floppy.

You can also provide support with a colorful stake or adjust your care to promote stronger growth.

Choose from a variety that grows 6-14 inches tall or one that is more compact.

Plants like these can be displayed as tabletop plants, dish gardens, or tucked into smaller space.

You can choose from a wide range of tall or short varieties.

Most have horizontal dark green lines on sword-shaped leaves that are lighter green in color.

One of its common names comes from the fact that it resembles snakeskin.

In some plants, the leaf edges are narrow or wide, the leaves are silver green and the leaves are twisted or cylindrical.

You can choose one, two or even a few more pieces from Pasquesi’s collection for your indoor garden.

A wide clay pot is the best option for growing tall varieties for additional stability.

If they are growing in plastic containers, double pot them.

Choose a container made of terra cotta or glaze, and set the plastic pot inside.

If the decorative pot lacks drainage holes, place pebbles on the bottom.

Occasionally, these plants will flower.

When they are kept in bright light and potbound, this usually happens to them.

Once flowering is complete, remove the flower stalk to enjoy the fragrant greenish-white flowers.

With their striking lines and hardiness, sansevieria plants are perfect even for people with no green thumbs.

They also act as air purifiers, improving your home’s air quality.

Here’s how to keep them healthy.

You will never regret your choice if you are choosing snake plant as your houseplant!


Choosing Snake Plant to Bring Home

If you are shopping for snake plants, choose one that has dark green leaves;

Leaves that are too pale may indicate that they are already faltering.

Check to make sure your plant requires re-potting and choose a terra cotta pot or porous pot…

….that allows for good drainage.

This is the hardest part of choosing snake plant.

Choosing snake plant 3
credit: https://simplifyplants.com/how-to-care-for-snake-plant-in-winter/

Knowing a plant’s water and light needs is the key to a green thumb.

It’s wise to select the correct plant for indoor growing conditions before purchasing any plants..

..so it can thrive in the conditions you will provide for it, including the amount of light and temperature.

Plant selection tips:

  • Look for insects on the underside of leaves.
  • Avoid plants that are suffering from drought stress, which is indicated by yellow foliage.
  • Ask someone from the garden local for help if you are uncertain which plant to choose.
  • Plants do not like sitting in water, so your container must have a drainage hole. Put rocks in the bottom of the pot if it does not have holes, and place the plant on top.

Plants to Grow in Hardy Conditions

Plants like these don’t require much maintenance and offer vibrant color and texture.

Regardless of the conditions in which you grow, there is a plant that will flourish.

Corn plant (Dracaena) thrives well in a sunny spot near a window.

Several forms are available..

..one with broad leaves and white trim, another with spiky leaves and a variety of colors.

The false palm is another form of the dracaena, which appears like a miniature  palm tree.

Prayer plant (Maranta) features dark green leaves dotted with red and white veins.

Even in conditions where there is little light, it will thrive, but it must be watered regularly.

Snake plant (Sansevieria) , which requires very little water, can grow in a wide range of conditions.

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum) displays creamy white flowers with yellow centers on broad dark green leaves.

Plants in this category need more moisture and do best in moderate light conditions.

Begonias come in a variety of colors, including red, silver, green, and dark green, and are easy to grow.

Devil’s ivy (Pothos aureus) is one of the toughest and easiest indoor plants to grow.

A trailing plant with foliage that is mingled with either white or green, it is slow-growing.

Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema) has vibrant foliage that can withstand low light.

Silver leaves provide contrast to dark places in the home even though it doesn’t flower.


Thrives on Neglect

Yep, snake plants can tolerate deep shade and full sun, and they even put up with a few nights of freezing temperatures.

They don’t need a tender hand to prune the foliage, and they don’t need a lot of water.

Snake plants don’t need to be repotted frequently, either.

My aunt’s snake plants occupied every corner of her home and she never repotted…

…them until the roots cracked the clay pots.

However, it should be noted that you can split up the plant into multiple pieces…

…each ready to be taken home as a new potted plant.

Despite being cradles of life and biodiversity, jungles tend to suffer from poor soil quality…

….since those minerals and nutrients are locked away inside the excessive amounts of greenery.

To mimic the conditions of its native habitat, snake plants wish to live in a cramped, bad-quality home.

Well, now convincing enough to choosing snake plant as your houseplant?

Choosing snake plant 4
credit: https://vintagerevivals.com/snake-plant/

Soil for Snake Plant

Snake plants do best with a free-draining soil mix, because they are easily prone to rot.

A sodless potting mix is best to make sure that there is adequate drainage.

Also be sure to never leave standing water in the saucer.

Choosing snake plant 5
credit: https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-grow-and-care-for-a-snake-plant/9ba683603be9fa5395fab901751dbf3b

It’s best to keep snake plants on the dry side so the mix they’re planted in must drain well.

Too much moisture will cause root rot, so be careful not to let it sit too long.

Because it’s chunky and well aerated, I add in succulent and cactus mix.

Additionally, I add a few handfuls of organic compost..

When repotting houseplants, I use much less of this and worm compost than I do for container plants..

..as well as a 1/2 layer of worm compost on top.


Care and Water Requirements

Upon receiving your plants, always ensure your plants are adequately watered.

It’s best to check the moisture level in the soil first before giving your plant a drink..

..to ensure it’s not wet right underneath the surface.

Consider aerating the soil of your plant before watering it for the first time.

The soil is compacted to prevent shifting during transit..

..so aerating can help the soil breathe and allow moisture to escape.

Sansevieria prefers to dry out completely between waterings.

Overwatering is the most common mistake made with these plants.

You won’t have to water your plant more than once every ten days (at most) even if it’s in ample bright indirect light.

During the winter or if the plant receives low light, it may only need to be watered once a month.

Make sure to let your Sansevieria’s soil thoroughly dry between waterings, regardless of where you place it.

Sansevieria are susceptible to root rot, so if there is any moisture in the soil, do not water the plant.

Dust the leaves often, so the plant can efficiently photosynthesize.

Rotate your plant periodically to ensure even growth on all sides.

Take the opportunity to inspect the undersides of the leaves and look for pests when dusting the leaves.

Keep in mind that each plant is unique and may have varying needs, depending on the location it is in.

You will have a long and happy relationship with your Sansevieria if you pay attention to its watering requirements.


Water, Light, and Food

Allow the soil to dry between waterings and take extra care not to overwater them in winter.

Snake plants do well when almost forgotten about. 

She gave up the duty of watering our indoor foliage to me to keep it in good shape.

But I am passionate about the houseplants decorating our home, and I have an expertly skilled hand…

…with propagating clones from our existing greenery.

Many houseplants require specific watering schedules in order to maintain their health.

Yet even a schedule of “once or twice a week” can stretch out into several weeks….

….when conditions are right, and that’s where a watchful eye is important.

Snake plants? Nah, they don’t matter.

You could put one in the closet during the winter and forget about it until you come upon it during your spring cleaning.

You’ll probably still find the plant in the same condition.

I water my snake plants every few weeks throughout the winter…

…but just enough to keep the soil from cracking too much.

They only need ounces of watering, and too much will easily waterlog and ruin the plant.

You will never regret your choice if you are choosing snake plant as your houseplant!


Why It Don’t Really Need Water

The reason is that snake plants have evolved a metabolic process known as crassulacean acid metabolism. 

The stomata of plants exchange gases and release water vapor as they do so. 

The stomata of many plants can be opened or closed in response to their environment…

…but Sansevieria only opens its stomata at night to conserve water.

Snake plants use 95% of their water through transpiration and expel the rest through gas exchange.

Plants are often referred to as a “necessary evil” for the process of gas exchange.

But animals don’t have this problem.

They have stoma that open only at night as a result they retain water much longer than any other houseplant.

If we continually fill them up then they will become waterlogged and begin to rot with enough water.

During the summer, you can still get away with watering the plant every few weeks…

…even sometimes taking a month between drinks.

It depends on where you have your container situated that will affect the exact timing between watering.

In areas with more sunlight during very warm periods of the summer…

…more watering may be needed regular watering but a snake plant tucked into a shady corner…

…can go for weeks without needing a drink even during the summer.

My collection has never been fertilized and seems to be happy as can be but if you are interested in giving it a little care, you can!

I recommend using rates half the recommended rate, and applying at half the frequency. 

One ounce of fertilizer every two weeks would be too much to use, so I would suggest half an ounce once every four weeks.

Never fertilize them in the winter, or they will really suffer.

Put your snake plants in indirect light, although they can withstand a variety of light conditions…

…and fertilize them during the growing season with an all-purpose plant food.


They Don’t Really Rely on Light

Most houses have a few really great windows for plant growth….

…but an abundance of locations without enough light to grow most houseplants.

Choosing snake plant is a good choice to you who are lazy.

You will never regret your choice if you are choosing snake plant as your houseplant!

While they thrive in the shade and in bright light, few thrive without any light, like Sansevieria.

You can throw these guys in full sun or deep shade conditions and they’ll keep on truckin’ all the way.

You must noted this before choosing snake plant.


It’s A Toxic Plant

According to the ASPCA , this plant can be toxic to dogs and cats, causing them…

…to throw up or have diarrhea if they consume or chew it.


Sum Up

Snake plants offer both visual appeal and practical benefits.

It is easy to grow both inside and outside, and they do not require much maintenance.

Additionally, snake plants filter indoor air, which is an attribute that can help you stay healthy and safe.

A snake plant can be both aesthetically pleasing and healthy for your home.

See having Snake plant is good choice for you to have!

It’s cool, its famous, it’s easy to have and care! What else do you need?

In this pandemic time like this, is a good choice for you to have an new activity and having snake plant is a good choice for you to have!


Conclusion

Last thing for sure. This plant need to be care carefully, remember plant need the “love” too.

Alright that’s all for today!

Do you have any questions about all of this?

Or do you want to add some method to choosing snake plant as your houseplant?

Let me know your recommendation from the comment below.

I hope you can now take care your snake carefully and grow it big!

Thanks for reading this article! Bye!


More Related Articles For You!

https://allthingsgardener.com/what-is-snake-plant/
https://allthingsgardener.com/is-sansevieria-plant-good-for-air-quality-in-the-house/
https://allthingsgardener.com/care-for-snake-plants-a-beginners-guide/
https://allthingsgardener.com/care-for-snake-plants-a-beginners-guide/
https://allthingsgardener.com/plant-small-snake-plants-in-small-pot/

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