The Mother In-law Tongue Plant can tolerate most indoor and outdoor shade conditions thanks to its sword-like, hardy and thick upright leaves. The most common foliage showcases shades of green with silver-gray horizontal streaks or with bright-green leaves and yellow edges. The plant is perfect for indoor designs and home decoration while requires minimal maintenance.
Size:
Pot size: 250mm pot
Width: 50cm
Height: 1-1.2M including pot
Weight: 3kg
Care Guide:
1. Lighting
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Ideal: Bright, indirect sunlight is optimal for healthy growth, encouraging the plant to grow tall and vibrant.
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Low light: Snake plants can tolerate low light conditions, making them perfect for places with minimal natural sunlight like bedrooms, hallways, or offices.
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Avoid: Direct sunlight (in summer), as it can scorch the leaves.
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Placement: Near a window with filtered light, or you can use sheer curtains to soften the sunlight.
2. Watering
Snake Plants are very drought-tolerant and prefer their soil to dry out between waterings.
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When to water: Water thoroughly, allowing water to drain out of the bottom of the pot.
In the warmer months: water once every 2-4 week, depending on the temperature and humidity levels in your home.
In winter months: water less frequently, every 4-6 weeks.
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Check drainage: Ensure your pot has good drainage to avoid water accumulating at the bottom. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
3. Temperature and Humidity
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Temperature: Snake plants prefer warm temperatures 15-29°C. They are sensitive to cold drafts and should not be exposed to chilly conditions, as this can damage the leaves.
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Humidity: Snake plants are quite tolerant of dry air, making them ideal for indoor environments with lower humidity, such as homes with air conditioning or heating.
4. Soil
Snake Plants prefer well-draining soil that doesn’t retain too much moisture.
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Ideal soil: A cactus or succulent mix is best, as it allows water to flow through quickly and prevents root rot. You can also add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage if needed.
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pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
5. Fertilizing
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When to fertilize: Fertilize once every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
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Type of fertilizer: Use a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to about half strength. You can also use a fertilizer formulated for succulents or houseplants.
6. Repotting and Maintenance
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Pruning: Cut off any yellow or damaged leaves at the base using clean, sharp scissors. You can also cut back leggy or excessively tall leaves to maintain a tidier appearance.
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Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years when the plant outgrows its pot, or the roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes. Choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger than the current one.
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Cleaning leaves: Wipe the leaves down regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. This will help the plant absorb more light and maintain its glossy appearance.
7. Common Issues
Here are some common problems you may encounter with Snake Plants and how to resolve them:
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Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of overwatering, poor drainage, or root rot. Make sure the pot has good drainage and adjust your watering schedule. Remove any affected leaves.
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Brown tips or edges: This can happen if the air is too dry, if the plant is underwatered, or if it has been over-fertilized. Increase humidity slightly or water more consistently.
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Leggy growth: If your Snake Plant becomes leggy, it might not be getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location, but avoid direct sunlight.
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Leaf drooping or wilting: This usually happens when the plant is either overwatered or underwatered. Adjust your watering habits and check the soil moisture level before watering again.
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Pests (like spider mites, aphids, or scale): Regularly inspect the plant, and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or a natural remedy like neem oil.
Pet-friendly: The Snake Plant is toxic to pets and should be kept away from animals.
