Snake Plant: A Hardy and Air-Purifying Houseplant

Mother-in-law's Tongue

Snake plant, also known as mother-in-law's tongue, is a common and easy-to-grow houseplant with stiff, sword-like leaves that can reach up to 12 feet tall in its native habitat but usually stay around 2 feet tall when grown indoors¹. They come in various colors and patterns, such as green, yellow, silver or variegated¹. Snake plants are not only attractive and low-maintenance, but also have several health benefits, such as filtering indoor air, removing toxic pollutants and boosting mental health.

Benefits of Snake Plants

Snake plants have a number of benefits that make them ideal for indoor environments. Here are some of them:

• They filter indoor air, even at night. Unlike most plants that release oxygen during the day and carbon dioxide at night, snake plants can convert carbon dioxide into oxygen at night². This can help improve the air quality and oxygen level in your bedroom while you sleep².
• They remove toxic pollutants. Snake plants can absorb and remove harmful toxins from the air, such as benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, trichloroethylene and toluene². These chemicals can cause headaches, nausea, irritation and cancer². By having snake plants in your home or office, you can reduce your exposure to these pollutants and protect your health².
• They boost mental health. Studies have shown that indoor plants can have positive effects on mental health, such as reducing stress, anxiety and depression². Snake plants can also enhance the mood and productivity of people who work or study in indoor settings². They can also create a sense of calmness and relaxation by adding some greenery and natural beauty to your space².
• They are easy to care for. Snake plants are very forgiving and adaptable plants that can survive in various conditions. They can tolerate low light, drought, neglect and temperature fluctuations¹. They only need occasional watering and fertilizing and are resistant to most pests and diseases¹. They are also non-toxic to cats and dogs³, so you don't have to worry about your pets nibbling on them.

How to Grow and Care for Snake Plants

Snake plants are very easy to grow and care for if you follow some simple tips. Here are some guidelines for growing and caring for snake plants:

• Choose a pot that has drainage holes and is slightly larger than the root ball of your snake plant. Use a well-drained potting mix that is suitable for succulents or cacti. Avoid using soil that is too rich or moist, as it can cause root rot.
• Place your snake plant in a bright spot that receives indirect sunlight or partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Snake plants can also survive in low-light areas, but they may grow slower and lose some of their color.
• Water your snake plant sparingly and only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering is the main cause of death for snake plants, as it can lead to root rot and fungal infections. Water less frequently in winter, when the plant is dormant.
• Fertilize your snake plant once or twice a year during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize in winter, when the plant is resting. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can cause leaf burn and damage the roots.
• Prune your snake plant occasionally to remove any dead, damaged or diseased leaves. Cut them off at the base with a sharp knife or scissors and dispose of them properly. You can also trim any leaves that are too long or out of shape to maintain a neat appearance.
• Propagate your snake plant by dividing the root ball or cutting off a leaf section. To divide the root ball, carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate it into smaller clumps with a sharp knife or spade. Make sure each clump has at least one healthy leaf and some roots attached. Repot them in fresh potting mix and water well. To cut off a leaf section, choose a healthy leaf and cut it off at the base. Cut it into smaller pieces, each about 3 to 4 inches long. Let them dry for a day or two until a callus forms on the cut end. Then insert them into moist potting mix with the cut end down and the leaf tip up. Keep them in a warm and bright place until they root.

Conclusion

Snake plants are wonderful houseplants that have many benefits for your home and health. They are easy to grow and care for, they purify the air, they boost your mood and they add beauty and style to your space. If you are looking for a plant that can thrive in any condition and require minimal attention, snake plants are a great choice.

Source:

(1) Snake Plant: Care & Growing Guide - The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/snake-plant-care-overview-1902772.

(2) Snake Plant: Benefits, Types, Cautions, and How to Grow - Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-snake-plant.

(3) Snake Plant: A Forgiving, Low-maintenance Houseplant - Penn State Extension. https://extension.psu.edu/snake-plant-a-forgiving-low-maintenance-houseplant

Image Attribution: W.carter, Snake plant, Sansevieria trifasciata 'Golden Hahnii', in Tuntorp, CC BY-SA 4.0

Watch this Video to Learn more about Snake Plants

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