Having a Snake Plant in your home should be at the top of your list! They are great for beginners because they adapt well to any lighting situation and don’t require frequent waterings (usually about every 2-3 weeks!) Their structural vibe will take your decor up like 50 levels, and they are perfect to give as a gift!! Oh and did I mention that they filter the air in your home better than any other houseplant? Yep. Snake plants are going to rock your world!!
Do Snake Plants Need Drainage?
Snake plants, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, are resilient indoor plants that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Many plant owners wonder if snake plants need drainage holes in their pots to prevent overwatering. While drainage is not strictly necessary, it can be beneficial for long-term snake plant health
Why Drainage Helps Snake Plants
Drainage holes allow excess water to flow out of the pot. This prevents waterlogged soil, which can lead to several issues:
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Root Rot – Wet soil promotes fungal growth that can rot and damage roots. Symptoms include drooping leaves and stunted growth.
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Oxygen Deprivation – Roots need air! Submerged roots suffocate and cannot take in oxygen. This also stunts growth.
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Root Burn – Salts and minerals in tap water can build up without drainage. This burns roots over time.
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Weak Roots – Healthy snake plant roots cannot develop if constantly surrounded by moisture. The plant cannot absorb nutrients without strong roots.
Essentially, drainage holes provide air circulation and prevent over-saturation. This allows the soil to dry adequately between waterings. Proper drying promotes healthy roots and wards off fungal issues.
Growing Snake Plants Without Drainage
Lack of drainage does not automatically doom snake plants. With careful watering, you can maintain healthy plants in pots without holes. Here are some tips:
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Use a moisture meter – Only water when soil is completely dry to avoid over-saturation.
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Add amendments – Mix in perlite, vermiculite, gravel or charcoal to improve drainage and aeration.
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Water minimally – Use a syringe or spray bottle to control water amount. Apply to soil, not leaves.
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Remove excess water – Tip the pot to drain off any excess moisture after watering.
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Small pots – Choose containers only slightly larger than the root ball to prevent puddling.
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Monitor frequently – Check soil and roots often for signs of fungal issues or rot.
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Repot annually – Assess root health yearly and repot in a container with holes if issues arise.
While possible, lack of drainage generally makes snake plants more prone to problems. Roots sitting in moisture have little oxygen and are vulnerable to rotting fungi. With vigilance, these risks can be mitigated, but drainage holes provide an added safety net.
The Verdict: Provide Drainage for Healthiest Snake Plants
For optimal growth and longevity, snake plant owners should choose pots with drainage holes whenever possible. While not absolutely necessary, drainage helps maintain adequate air circulation around roots and prevents overwatering issues. Without drainage, extra care must be taken to monitor soil moisture and amend potting mixes. With drainage holes, snake plants have the best chance of thriving over many years.
Troubleshooting A Sick Snake Plant
I asked on Instagram last week if you guys would send in pictures of your dying snake plants, and these are some of them!!
If your snake plant is anything less than green and full, there has to be something wrong with it. Because the snake plant is so good at adapting to most lighting situations, it’s usually a case of over or under watering. Usually over watering, remember Sans thrive on neglect. Just watch for the signs below and follow through with the corresponding treatment:
Why are the leaves on my snake plant droopy?
Likely cause/solution: This can be another sign of overwatering. Be sure to water only when the top two inches of soil are completely dry. Also, look at the container that your plant is in. Is it pretty shallow? Having wiggle room at the base of the plant can absolutely cause the leaves to appear droopy, when in reality they just need to be put in a different planter! (That is what is happening in the picture above!
Do Snake Plants Need Drainage Holes? #snakeplantcare
FAQ
What kind of pots do snake plants like?
Choose a new pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to provide adequate space without risking overpotting. Opt for materials like terracotta or clay that support soil drying and prevent root rot, and ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Do snake plants need well-draining soil?
A: Snake plants thrive in a well-draining soil mix, especially if it’s a cactus or succulent mix with perlite or pumice. This applies to new cuttings during propagation.