How to Water Snake Plants from the Bottom

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria, are popular houseplants because they are easy to care for and can thrive in low-light environments. One important aspect of their care is watering, and while most people water their snake plants from the top, watering from the bottom can also be beneficial. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to water snake plants from the bottom.

Step 1: Find a Container

The first step is to find a container to hold your snake plant. It should be wide enough and deep enough to hold your plant comfortably, with a few inches of clearance on all sides. Plastic plant saucers or shallow bowls work well, but any container that can hold water without leaking will do. If you are using a container that does not have drainage holes, be sure to create some using a drill or hammer and nail.

Step 2: Add Water

Once you have your container, the next step is to add water. Fill the container with enough water to cover the bottom inch of the pot. You want to ensure that the water level is not too high or too low. If it is too high, your plant may sit in standing water which can lead to rot. If it is too low, your plant may not be able to absorb enough moisture.

Step 3: Place the Pot in the Container

The third step is to place your snake plant pot in the container. Gently set the pot and make sure it is sitting evenly in the water. You want the bottom inch of the soil in the pot to be submerged in the water. If your pot has drainage holes, ensure that they are not submerged in the water to avoid excess moisture in the soil.

Step 4: Let the Plant Soak

Now that your pot is in the water, let it soak for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the plant to absorb water from the roots up, rather than just from the top of the soil. Snake plants are drought-tolerant, so you do not need to soak them for long periods, but soaking for 30 minutes ensures that the water reaches the lower roots where it is needed.

Step 5: Drain the Excess Water

Once the plant has soaked for at least 30 minutes, remove it from the water and allow any excess water to drain from the pot. You do not want to leave the plant sitting in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Be sure to empty the container of any remaining water and wipe it dry before storing it away.

Conclusion

Watering your snake plant from the bottom can be a great way to ensure that it gets the moisture it needs, especially if you tend to forget or overwater your plants. Following these simple steps will help you water your plant from the bottom, keeping it healthy and happy.