What is what to do when snake plant leaves fall over?

Snake Plant Leaves Falling Over: Causes and Solutions

When your snake plant (Sansevieria) leaves start to droop or fall over, it's usually a sign something isn't quite right. Here's a breakdown of possible causes and what you can do:

• Overwatering: This is the most common culprit. Snake plants are succulents and store water in their leaves. Too much water leads to root rot, weakening the plant and causing leaves to fall over.

  • Solution: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Make sure your pot has good drainage. You can check the soil moisture by sticking your finger a couple of inches into the soil. If it feels damp, don't water. In winter, reduce watering frequency even further. Check the state of the root system, repot it if needed with fresh soil. Learn more about overwatering.

• Underwatering: While overwatering is more common, underwatering can also lead to drooping. If the soil is bone dry and the leaves are shriveling, your plant needs a drink.

  • Solution: Water thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Then allow the soil to dry out completely again before the next watering. Learn more about underwatering.

• Root Rot: As mentioned above, overwatering often leads to root rot, a fungal disease that decays the roots. Without healthy roots, the plant can't absorb water or nutrients, causing leaves to weaken and fall.

  • Solution: Remove the plant from its pot and carefully inspect the roots. Healthy roots are firm and light-colored; rotten roots are mushy and brown or black. Cut away any rotten roots with sterilized scissors or a knife. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil in a clean pot. Apply a fungicide if necessary. Learn more about root%20rot.

• Insufficient Light: While snake plants are tolerant of low light, they do best in bright, indirect light. Too little light can weaken the plant over time.

  • Solution: Move your plant to a brighter location. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Learn more about insufficient%20light.

• Temperature Stress: Snake plants prefer temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold) can stress the plant.

  • Solution: Keep your plant away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners. Learn more about temperature%20stress.

• Physical Damage: Leaves can be damaged by being bumped, bent, or broken.

  • Solution: If a leaf is only partially damaged, you can leave it alone. If it's severely damaged or broken, cut it off cleanly near the base of the plant.

• Old Age: Sometimes, older leaves will naturally die off.

  • Solution: This is a natural part of the plant's life cycle. Simply remove the dead leaves.

By addressing the potential causes, you can help your snake plant recover and prevent further leaves from falling over.