How to Tell If Snake Plant Is Dying

As a popular and low-maintenance houseplant, snake plants (Sansevieria Trifasciata) are often thought to be indestructible. However, even the toughest plants can struggle and die if not properly cared for. At Botanic Beam, we understand the importance of recognizing the signs of a dying snake plant, and we're here to guide you through the process.

Visual Inspection: Look for These Common Signs

The first step in determining if your snake plant is dying is to perform a visual inspection. Check your plant for any of the following signs:

Yellowing or browning leaves: If the leaves of your snake plant are turning yellow or brown, it may be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures.

Wilted or droopy leaves: If the leaves are wilted or droopy, it could indicate a lack of water or exposure to dry air.

Soft or mushy stems: A healthy snake plant stem is firm and sturdy. If the stem is soft or mushy, it may be a sign of root rot or other diseases.

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Black or brown tips: Black or brown tips on the leaves can be a sign of fluoride toxicity, which is common in tap water.

Check the Soil Moisture

Snake plants prefer well-draining soil and can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. If it's already moist, wait a few more days before watering again.

Examine the Roots

If you suspect root rot, it's essential to examine the roots of your snake plant. Gently remove the plant from its pot, and inspect the roots. Healthy roots are white or light-colored and firm. If the roots are soft, mushy, or black, it's a sign of root rot.

Check for Pests

Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can weaken your snake plant and cause it to die. Inspect the leaves and stems for any signs of pests, such as tiny eggs, white powdery residue, or actual insects.

Inspect the Pot and Drainage

A pot with poor drainage can cause waterlogged soil, leading to root rot and other problems. Check the pot for any blockages in the drainage holes, and make sure the pot is not sitting in water.

Monitor the Temperature

Snake plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. If your plant is exposed to drafts, air conditioning, or heating vents, it may be stressed, leading to decline or death.

Assess the Lighting

Snake plants can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, but extreme lighting can cause stress. If your plant is exposed to direct sunlight, it may cause scorching or discoloration. On the other hand, low light can cause weak and leggy growth.

Check for Nutrient Deficiencies

Snake plants require minimal fertilization, but a lack of essential nutrients can cause decline. Check your fertilizer schedule and consider using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).

Take Action: Revive or Replace Your Snake Plant

If you've identified the problem affecting your snake plant, it's time to take action. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may be able to revive your plant or need to replace it. Here are some general tips:

Prune dead or damaged leaves and stems to prevent the spread of disease and encourage new growth.

Adjust your watering schedule based on the soil moisture and temperature.

Repot your snake plant in fresh, well-draining soil with proper drainage.

Monitor your plant's progress and make adjustments as needed.

If your snake plant is beyond revival, consider replacing it with a new one. Choose a healthy plant with firm stems and bright green leaves, and follow proper care instructions to ensure its success.

By following these steps and monitoring your snake plant's health, you can identify potential problems early and take action to prevent decline or death. Remember, even the toughest plants require proper care, and with the right attention, your snake plant can thrive for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common signs of a dying snake plant?

A dying snake plant can exhibit a range of symptoms, including yellowing or browning leaves, droopy or wilted stems, black or mushy roots, and a soft or mushy texture. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to take action to save your plant.

Why is my snake plant turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves on a snake plant can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, too much direct sunlight, or a lack of nutrients. Check your watering schedule and adjust it accordingly, and consider fertilizing your plant to provide it with the necessary nutrients.

How often should I water my snake plant?

Snake plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Water your snake plant once a week during the spring and summer months, and once every 4-6 weeks during the fall and winter months.

Can I revive a dying snake plant?

Yes, it's possible to revive a dying snake plant if you catch the problem early. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems, adjust your watering schedule, and provide your plant with bright, indirect sunlight. With proper care, your snake plant should recover.

Why are the leaves on my snake plant droopy?

Droopy leaves on a snake plant can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or a lack of humidity. Check your watering schedule and adjust it accordingly, and consider placing your plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles to increase the humidity around it.

How do I know if my snake plant is getting too much sun?

If your snake plant is getting too much sun, the leaves may become scorched, develop brown spots, or become brittle. Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect sunlight, and consider using a sheer curtain to filter the sun's rays.

Can I propagate a dying snake plant?

Yes, you can propagate a dying snake plant by cutting off healthy leaves or stems and potting them in well-draining soil. This can help you save the healthy parts of the plant and create new plants.

Why is my snake plant growing slowly?

Snake plants can grow slowly due to a lack of light, inadequate watering, or a lack of nutrients. Ensure your plant is receiving bright, indirect sunlight, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Consider fertilizing your plant to provide it with the necessary nutrients.

How do I treat root rot in a snake plant?

To treat root rot in a snake plant, remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Remove any black or mushy roots, and repot the plant in well-draining soil. Reduce watering and provide your plant with bright, indirect sunlight.

Can I save a snake plant with root rot?

It's possible to save a snake plant with root rot if you catch the problem early. Remove any affected roots, repot the plant in well-draining soil, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. However, if the root rot is severe, it may be more challenging to save the plant.

Why are the edges of my snake plant leaves turning brown?

Brown edges on snake plant leaves can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Check your watering schedule and adjust it accordingly, and ensure your plant is not exposed to drafts or extreme temperatures.

How do I prevent pests from infesting my snake plant?

To prevent pests from infesting your snake plant, ensure the soil is dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering. Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. Isolate infected plants, and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Can I grow a snake plant indoors?

Yes, snake plants can thrive indoors, provided they receive bright, indirect sunlight and are watered sparingly. They are ideal for low-light spaces and can tolerate a range of temperatures.

How do I prune a snake plant?

To prune a snake plant, remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. This will help maintain the plant's appearance and promote healthy growth.

Why is my snake plant not growing?

A snake plant may not be growing due to a lack of light, inadequate watering, or a lack of nutrients. Ensure your plant is receiving bright, indirect sunlight, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Consider fertilizing your plant to provide it with the necessary nutrients.

Can I grow a snake plant outdoors?

Yes, snake plants can be grown outdoors in warm, frost-free climates. They prefer well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. However, they are sensitive to frost, so they should be brought indoors during the winter months.

How do I repot a snake plant?

To repot a snake plant, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, and use well-draining soil. Gently remove the plant from its pot, taking care not to damage the roots. Trim any circling roots, and repot the plant, firming the soil around the roots.

Why are the leaves on my snake plant curling?

Curling leaves on a snake plant can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Check your watering schedule and adjust it accordingly, and ensure your plant is not exposed to drafts or extreme temperatures.

Can I use a snake plant as an air purifier?

Yes, snake plants are known to be effective air purifiers, removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air. They are a popular choice for indoor spaces, particularly in areas with poor air quality.

How do I care for a snake plant during the winter months?

During the winter months, reduce watering to once every 4-6 weeks, as the plant is dormant. Keep the plant in a cool, bright location, and avoid fertilizing until the spring months.

Why is my snake plant developing brown spots?

Brown spots on a snake plant can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Check your watering schedule and adjust it accordingly, and ensure your plant is not exposed to drafts or extreme temperatures.

Can I grow a snake plant in a terrarium?

Yes, snake plants can thrive in a terrarium, provided the container has good drainage and the soil is not too wet. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

How do I propagate snake plant leaves?

To propagate snake plant leaves, cut off healthy leaves from the mother plant, leaving a small amount of stem attached. Allow the cut ends to dry for a few days, then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop.

Why is my snake plant not producing new leaves?

A snake plant may not be producing new leaves due to a lack of light, inadequate watering, or a lack of nutrients. Ensure your plant is receiving bright, indirect sunlight, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Consider fertilizing your plant to provide it with the necessary nutrients.

Get The Botanic Beam App Today!

With just a snap, unveil the mysteries of your green companions. Discover their secrets, learn their names, and embrace the magic of expert care tips and hidden tricks for lush, thriving growth.