How Often Should You Water a Snake Plant?
Proper snake plant care isn't about a strict schedule. Learn how to assess your plant's unique environment to provide the right amount of water for it to thrive.
The snake plant, or Dracaena trifasciata, is a popular and resilient choice for homes and offices. Despite its reputation for being easy to care for, determining the correct watering schedule is a common challenge, as providing the right amount of moisture is key to the plant’s health.
Factors Influencing Watering Frequency
No single watering schedule works for every snake plant, as the frequency depends on its environment. The time of year is a primary consideration. Snake plants enter dormancy in fall and winter, slowing their growth and requiring much less water than during their active spring and summer growing season.
The amount of light a plant receives directly impacts its water consumption. A snake plant in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight will photosynthesize more actively and use water more quickly. In contrast, a plant in a low-light corner will have slower growth and its soil will remain damp for a longer period.
Ambient temperature and humidity also affect how quickly the soil dries. Plants in warmer, drier conditions will lose moisture faster than those in cooler, more humid environments. This is why a plant might need water more frequently during a dry winter when heating systems are running, or in a hot summer.
The pot’s material and size contribute to watering needs. Porous materials like terracotta cause the soil to dry out faster, while non-porous plastic or glazed pots retain moisture longer. Smaller pots also hold less soil and will dry out more quickly than larger ones.
A suitable soil mix is important. Snake plants thrive in a well-draining potting medium, such as those formulated for cacti and succulents. These mixes are less dense and do not hold excessive water. Standard soils with more peat moss will retain moisture longer, extending the time between waterings.
How to Properly Water Your Snake Plant
The guiding principle for snake plants is to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. To check, insert your finger about two inches into the soil; if you feel any moisture, wait a few more days. Alternatively, a wooden skewer inserted deep into the pot will come out clean and dry when it is time to water.
When the soil is dry, use the “soak and drain” method. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing it to saturate the entire root ball until it flows freely from the drainage holes. This deep watering encourages a strong root system and is healthier than providing small, frequent sips of water that only moisten the top layer of soil.
After watering, ensure the plant does not sit in standing water by emptying the saucer or cache pot of any excess. Allowing the pot to remain in water leads to waterlogged soil, which deprives the roots of oxygen and creates an environment for root rot.
Signs of Incorrect Watering
Overwatering is the most frequent mistake made with snake plants. Signs include leaves turning yellow near the base of the plant, a soft or mushy base, and leaves that lose their structure and fall over. These symptoms indicate that the roots are suffering from rot due to excessive moisture.
While less common, underwatering can also occur. The leaves may appear wrinkled or shriveled as the plant uses its internal water reserves. The tips of the leaves might turn brown and become dry and crispy. The leaves may also begin to curl inward as the plant attempts to conserve moisture.