How to Tell if Snake Plant Needs Water

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or mother-in-law's tongue, are one of the hardiest and low maintenance houseplants you can have. These plants can withstand a variety of light and temperature conditions, making them perfect for beginners or those who may not have green thumbs. However, despite their hardiness, snake plants can still suffer from overwatering or underwatering. In this article, we will discuss how to tell if your snake plant needs water.

Assess Soil Moisture

The first and most obvious way to tell if your snake plant needs water is by assessing the soil moisture. Stick your finger about two inches into the soil and feel for moisture. If the soil is dry, it's time to water your plant. If it's still moist, hold off on watering for a few more days.

Look for Wilting Leaves

If your snake plant is starting to wilt, it's a sign that it needs water. Wilting leaves are a way for the plant to conserve water and energy, but if left unwatered for too long, the leaves will start to droop and may even turn yellow or brown. When watering, make sure to give the plant enough water to saturate the soil and not just a light misting.

Check the Pot Weight

If you're not sure if your snake plant needs water, another way to tell is by checking the weight of the pot. Lift the pot and feel how heavy it is. If it's light, the plant needs water. If it's heavy, the plant is still hydrated and doesn't need to be watered yet.

Inspect the Leaves

If the leaves of your snake plant are starting to curl, it's a sign that the plant needs water. As a way to conserve water, the leaves will start to curl inwards to reduce the surface area of the plant, which in turn reduces the amount of water lost through transpiration. If you notice this happening, water your plant immediately.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are several ways to tell if your snake plant needs water. Overwatering can be just as damaging as underwatering, so it's important to keep an eye on your plant and only water when necessary. By using these tips, you can keep your snake plant happy and healthy for years to come.