What to do if you over water a snake plant

If you're a plant lover, you know how rewarding it can be to watch your plants grow and thrive. However, even the most experienced gardeners can run into some trouble with their plants from time to time. Over watering is a common problem that can afflict even the hardiest plants, including the snake plant. If you've over watered your beloved snake plant, fear not! There are steps you can take to nurse it back to health and prevent further damage.

Assess the extent of the damage

The first step in fixing an over watered snake plant is to assess the extent of the damage. Look for signs of over watering, such as yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a foul odor emanating from the soil. If the damage is minimal, you may be able to remedy the situation without too much effort. However, if the plant is severely damaged, you may need to take more drastic measures.

Remove excess water from the soil

One of the most important steps in fixing an over watered snake plant is to remove excess water from the soil. This can be done by carefully tipping the pot on its side and allowing the excess water to drain out. You can also use a towel or sponge to absorb any excess moisture in the soil. Be sure to remove the plant from its saucer or dish to prevent it from sitting in any water that may collect there.

Repot the plant

If the soil in your snake plant is consistently waterlogged, it may be time to repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the existing pot, and fill it with a mixture of soil and sand to improve drainage. Carefully remove the plant from its existing pot, being sure to gently loosen any tangled roots. Place the plant in the new pot and fill in any gaps with additional soil. Water the plant lightly to settle the soil, but be sure not to over water it again.

Adjust your watering habits

To prevent over watering your snake plant in the future, it's important to adjust your watering habits. Snake plants are very resilient and can tolerate periods of drought, so be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Only water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Additionally, be sure to adjust the amount of water you give the plant based on the season and weather conditions. During the winter months, for instance, your snake plant will require less water than it does during the hot summer months.

Conclusion

If you've over watered your snake plant, don't panic. With a little bit of care and attention, you can nurse your plant back to health and prevent further damage. Be sure to assess the extent of the damage, remove excess water from the soil, repot the plant, and adjust your watering habits to prevent over watering in the future. With these steps in mind, your snake plant will be back to its vibrant and healthy self in no time.