Find out common Things You Should Never Do to a Snake Plant in Summer for a healthy, lush growth of this popular houseplant.
Snake plants (also known as Sansevieria or Mother-in-law’s Tongue) are some of the easiest houseplants to grow. They handle neglect well, survive in low light, and don’t need much water. But even though they’re tough, summer care mistakes can still harm them.
Here are things you should never do to a snake plant in summer, so your plant stays healthy and happy all season long.
Things You Should Never Do to a Snake Plant in Summer
1. Don’t Leave It in Harsh Direct Sunlight
Snake plants enjoy bright, indirect light, but direct summer sun can burn their leaves. When the sunlight is too strong, the leaves can develop brown or white spots. These sunburned areas may become dry and crispy, causing the plant to lose its healthy green color.
Instead of putting your snake plant in the direct path of the sun, choose a spot near a bright window that has a curtain or shade. If you place the plant outdoors during summer, keep it in a partially shaded area to prevent sun damage.
2. Avoid Using Too Much Fertilizer
Summer is a growing season for many plants, but that doesn’t mean you should feed your snake plant too often. Snake plants grow slowly and don’t need much fertilizer. If you add too much, the roots can burn, and the leaves may turn yellow or droopy.
A simple rule is to feed your snake plant once during summer with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. If you don’t fertilize at all, your plant will usually still do just fine.
3. Don’t Repot Unnecessarily
Repotting your snake plant in summer may seem like a good idea, but it’s better to avoid repotting unless it’s absolutely necessary. Snake plants actually like to be a little crowded in their pots. When you repot too often, the plant can go into shock, slowing down its growth.
Only repot your snake plant if the roots are breaking the pot or growing out of the drainage holes. When you do decide to repot, choose a container with drainage and use a well-draining soil mix, like cactus or succulent soil.
4. Do not Mist the Leaves
Misting is a common care step for tropical plants, but snake plants don’t need misting, even in summer. These plants come from dry regions and prefer low humidity. When you mist the leaves, moisture can get trapped between them, which encourages fungus and mold to grow.
The best way to care for your snake plant’s leaves is to keep them clean and dry. If they get dusty, just wipe them gently with a soft cloth.
5. Keep an Eye on Pests
In summer, houseplants can attract pests like mealybugs and spider mites. If you ignore these bugs, they can damage your snake plant. Pests suck the sap from the leaves, leaving them weak, yellow, or spotted. Over time, they can spread to other plants in your home.
It’s important to check your snake plant regularly for signs of pests. If you find any, clean the leaves with mild soapy water or use neem oil to remove the bugs safely.
