Sansevieria, or snake plants, are common indoor plants admired for their unique appearance and simple maintenance needs. But if you identify that the leaves on your snake plant are turning yellow, it can be a reason for concern. In this post, we’ll examine all of the causes of fading snake plant leaves and suggest advice on how to fix and prevent the problem.
Causes of snake plant turning yellow
Overwatering Snake plant
Overwatering is one of the main causes of yellowing snake plant leaves. Snake plants are well recognised for their tolerance to dryness and like slightly dry climates. The roots of your snake plant become wet when you overwater it, which causes root rot and yellow leaves. How to fix this:
In between waterings, let the soil dry out. If the soil feels dry after inserting your finger about an inch into it, it’s time to water.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes so that extra water can drain out.
To avoid water retention, choose soil designed specifically for cacti or succulents that are well-draining.
Underwatering snake plant
While underwatering can also cause snake plant leaves to turn yellow, overwatering can be an issue. Your snake plant will display symptoms of dehydration and stress if it doesn’t get enough water. To resolve this problem:
When the soil becomes dry, establish a watering schedule and give the plant enough water.
Thoroughly water the plant until water drains from the drainage holes.
Depending on the climate, such as the temperature and humidity, adjust the frequency of watering.
Insufficient light
Snake plants are adaptable and can tolerate a range of light conditions, but they thrive best in bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can cause the leaves to become pale and yellow. To ensure your snake plant gets enough light:
- Place it near a window with indirect sunlight. North or east-facing windows are ideal.
- Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even exposure to light.
- If natural light is limited, consider supplementing with artificial grow lights specifically designed for indoor plants.
Temperature extreme
Snake plants can be vulnerable to harsh heat or cold but prefer moderate temperatures. Extreme temperature swings may stress the plant, resulting in the leaves to yellow. To preserve ideal temperature ranges:
Away from draughts, such as windows or doors, keep your snake plant.
Keep it away from vents for heating or cooling.
For optimum growth, maintain a temperature range of 60-85°F (15-29°C).
Nutrient Deficiency
Snake plants’ leaves may yellow due a lack of critical nutrients. To make sure your plant gets the nutrition it needs:
Utilise a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser formulated especially for indoor plants.
For the right dilution and application, according to the directions on the fertiliser box.
During the growing season (spring and summer), apply fertiliser; during the dormant season (autumn and winter), reduce or stop feeding. You can help prevent yellowing leaves and enhance your snake plant’s general health and vitality by attending to these typical problems and giving it the proper care.
Unique Solution for Snake plant turning yellow
Aloe vera treatment for snake plants
The therapeutic qualities of aloe vera can be used to restore snake plant leaves that are beginning to yellow. As a choice to consider:
To get the gel, cut an aloe vera leaf that has reached maturity.
Mix the gel thoroughly after diluting it with an equal amount of water.
Using a gentle brush or cloth, apply the mixture to the yellowing leaves.
After giving the plant a few hours to absorb the solution, rinse it off with water.
Aloe vera has nutrients and enzymes that the snake plant can benefit from, potentially reviving its vibrant green colour.
Epsom Salt Therapy
Epsom salt, sometimes referred to as magnesium sulfate, can give your snake plant a much-needed nutritional boost. It has magnesium, which is necessary for the growth of chlorophyll and the general health of plants. Take these actions:
1 spoonful of Epsom salt should be dissolved in 1 gallon of water.
Use this solution to water your snake plant, making sure to thoroughly immerse the roots.
To replenish magnesium stages, repeat this treatment once every two to three months.
The Epsom salt treatment may assist the snake plant in fight fading leaves and encourage healthy growth by supplying essential minerals.
Spray of chamomile tea
Your snake plant can benefit from chamomile tea, which is well known for its relaxing qualities. Tea has minerals and organic substances that can help prevent yellowing leaves. This is how to apply it:
Make a pot of strong chamomile tea and let it cool.
Place the tea in a spray bottle for later use.
The chamomile tea should be used to thoroughly mist the snake plant’s leaves.
Every two weeks, repeat this technique.
Thanks to its medicinal qualities, the chamomile tea spray might aid in rejuvenating the snake plant and possibly lessen yellowing.
Application of Neem Oil
The neem tree produces neem oil, a natural pesticide and fungicide. It can successfully fight off illnesses and pests that could cause yellowing foliage. Use the next strategy:
Neem oil should be diluted in accordance with the product’s directions.
Neem oil should be applied to the afflicted leaves, paying special attention to the undersides because there is where pests would commonly hide.
Every two weeks or if necessary, carry out this procedure again until the yellowing stops.snake plant turning yellow.
FAQ Snake plant yellow leaves
Why do snake plant leaves yellow in the first place?
From watering practices to environmental stress,there are several causes, for the yellowing of snake plant leaves. For a problem to be effectively solved,the fundamental cause must be understood.
Does Overwatering Lead to Yellow Leaves?
The main reason why snake plants, develop yellow leaves is, indeed, overwatering. Unlike other indoor plants, these ones can withstand droughts and consume less water. When a plant receives excessive water it may develop root rot which deprives it of vital nutrients and turns its leaves yellow.
When Do I Water My Snake Plant?
The snake plant, should only receive a small amount of water. Between irrigations, let the soil to totally dry out. Ideally, plants should only need to be watered once every two to three weeks, however this might change depending on the climate.
Could sunlight alter the hue of the leaves?
Snake plant leaves, can get burnt and yellow due to the severe conditions of direct sunshine. For best results, put your snake plant in filtered sunlight or indirect light.
What Causes Yellowing Leaves, Pests or Both?
Snake plants may be preyed upon, by a variety of pests, including mealybugs and spider mites. They drain the plant’s sap, stressing the plant and causing its leaves to become yellow. Look for these pests’ presence on a regular basis when inspecting your plant.
What Steps Can I Take to Improve the Soil Quality, for My Snake Plant?
You must choose soil that drains effectively. Consider repotting your snake plant with new potting soil if you believe the soil isn’t of good quality. You may improve drainage, by using perlite or sand.
Does Snake Plant Fertilizer Need to Be Used?
Even while snake plants don’t require, much food, they can still benefit from a boost now and then. Throughout the growth season, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month at the most. The accumulation of salt from over fertilization might result in yellow leaves.
Do Yellow Leaves Emerge From Temperature Changes?
Snake plant stress can result from, sudden temperature fluctuations. It’s preferable to maintain them in a steady atmosphere and stay away from drafts from doors, windows, and air conditioners. Keep it between 70°F and 90°F as much as possible.
How Can I Stop Yellow Leaves From Appearing Later?
The key is routine care. Make sure to water the plant properly situate it in good lighting, frequently check for pests, and add fertilizers as needed.
What Should I Do, With the Yellow Leaves?
For the plant to focus its energy on more wholesome development, it is advisable to clip off the yellow leaves. Scissors or pruning shears that have been, sharpened and sterilized are appropriate here.
