Hi, I'm Judy Mirro,
a UVM Master Gardener
coming to you from the University of Vermont greenhouses.
And I'm here to help you become a houseplant hero
by providing some guidance in caring for your houseplant.
Today our focus is on the Sansevieria.
It's the snake plant.
The snake plant is a long-lived, unfussy, succulent plant.
There are more than 70 species of snake plants
originating from Africa.
The cultivars vary in height, form, color,
and even leaf structure.
You'll find varieties
growing from six inches to several feet.
With all these types,
you should be able to find one
that's right for your living space.
Growing the snake plant is as easy as it gets.
It needs well-drained soil,
so choose a cactus potting mix
to ensure you're getting that drained soil.
Water it only when the soil is dry.
You can overlove this plant.
That's right.
You can overlove,
or as I like to say,
overwater this plant.
So let's just neglect it.
A little bit.
Snake plants enjoy bright, indirect light,
but they can tolerate low-lit areas just as well.
Do not place this plant in direct sun
or you'll risk leaf burn.
And you can tell by this plant
someone didn't love it very much
and they put it in the direct sun,
and it does have leaf-tip burn.
The one thing you do need to fuss over is the container.
It's best to choose a big old heavy pot
for the taller varieties
because the weight of these leaves
can topple the plant over,
especially when the soil is dry.
If you've already got your snake plant
happily planted in a plastic pot,
just plop it into a decorative ceramic container,
and it'll maintain stability.
And you'll actually look like a pro.
This plant doesn't mind being root-bound either,
so there's no rush to re-pot it.
If you want to treat the snake plant to a little extra TLC,
wipe the leaves down to prevent dust buildup.
There are very few pests and diseases
that bother this leafy green snake plant,
but overwatering can attract mealybugs and spider mites.
Overwatering can also cause root rot.
What should you do if you find pests on your plant?
Hose the plant off gently at the first sign of pests.
Rinse it off in the shower if it's too cold outside.
Remove any of the pests that you see
or any leaves that are heavily infested.
Once your plant is drip dry
while you still have it in the shower or sink,
spray it with an organic neem oil
to kill off any bugs that remain.
For mealybugs,
you may choose to use a cotton swab
dipped in rubbing alcohol
and remove all visible bugs.
Then wipe each plant leaf down
with a cotton ball or cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol
to remove any that you haven't removed before.
Some bugs like to hide.
Always make sure
you read the directions carefully and completely
before applying any pest-control application,
and remember to wear all the required safety gear listed.
Safety glasses and rubber gloves
are always a good idea.
To keep the snake plant happy, ignore it.
Well, not entirely,
but be sure to let the plant dry out between waterings
and provide good air circulation.
Remember that by providing your plants
with the conditions and care they need,
you too can be a houseplant hero.
For more information on houseplant or home gardens,
visit the UVM Master Garden website
and see our Garden Resources page.
Or contact the Extension Master Gardener volunteers
at the helpline.
The phone number is on your screen.
This is Extension Master Gardener Judy Mirro
wishing you happy gardening.