How to Bring Your Snake Plant Back to Life

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or Mother-in-Law鈥檚 Tongue, are renowned for their longevity and low-maintenance care. However, even these hardy plants can become stressed or unhealthy if not given proper attention. If you have a snake plant that is looking weak or sickly, there are steps you can take to revive it and bring it back to its vibrant, green self. Read on for our top tips on how to revive a snake plant.

Tip 1: Check for Overwatering

One of the most common reasons that snake plants struggle is because of overwatering. If the soil is consistently wet or the plant鈥檚 container doesn鈥檛 have adequate drainage, the roots can become waterlogged and begin to rot. This can cause the plant to wilt and suffer, even if it has plenty of sunlight and nutrients.

To check if your snake plant is suffering from overwatering, carefully remove it from its pot and inspect the soil and roots. If the soil is soaked through and the roots are slimy, brown, or have a foul odor, it鈥檚 likely that overwatering has been an issue.

To revive an overwatered snake plant, first, remove it from its pot and discard any soggy or dead roots. Then, replant the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and a container that has adequate drainage. Wait to water the plant until the soil is completely dry and then only water it when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Tip 2: Provide Adequate Sunlight

Another common cause of snake plant unhealthiness is a lack of sunlight. Snake plants are native to West Africa and are adapted to survive in bright, indirect sunlight. If your plant is in a dark room or receiving only occasional sun, it may begin to lose its vibrant green color and have stunted growth.

To revive a snake plant with sunlight issues, move it to a brighter location. A room with a south-facing window or a bright but filtered area outdoors can be ideal. However, be careful not to place your plant in direct sunlight, as the harsh rays can scorch the leaves and cause damage.

Tip 3: Use Proper Fertilization

Lastly, if your snake plant is looking weak or slow-growing, it may be lacking the proper nutrients. Snake plants are typically low-maintenance and don鈥檛 require frequent fertilization. However, if you haven鈥檛 fed your plant in several months or if it鈥檚 in a container with limited soil, it may benefit from a boost of nutrients.

To help your snake plant recover from malnourishment, gently apply a balanced, slow-releasing fertilizer to the soil. This will give the plant a steady supply of nutrients over several months without overwhelming it.

In conclusion, while snake plants are typically easy to care for, even these hardy plants can become stressed or unhealthy without proper attention. If your snake plant is struggling, the above tips may help to revive it and bring it back to its healthy, green self. By checking for overwatering, providing adequate sunlight, and using proper fertilization, your snake plant can thrive for years to come.