Fertilizing snake plants isn’t complicated, but doing it right can make a big difference in their growth and overall health. While these hardy plants don’t need much, the right fertilizer at the right time can help them thrive.
So how often should you fertilize – and what type works best for snake plants?
Let’s go over the basics to keep your plant looking its best.
Table of Contents
Easy Snake Plant Care Guide 💚
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💧 Water: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Snake plants are drought-tolerant and prefer dry conditions - overwatering can lead to root rot.
🌱 Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix - I personally use this potting mix. A mix with sand or perlite, like this one, helps prevent waterlogging.
☀️ Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal, but Snake plants are highly adaptable and can thrive in low light or even some direct sun.
🌡️ Temperature: Keep your Snake plant in a room between 60-80°F (15-27°C). They can handle a wide range of indoor conditions but dislike cold drafts.
🌿 Fertilizer: Feed with a diluted, balanced fertilizer (my top pick is this Miracle-Gro one) once every 2-3 months during the growing season. Skip feeding in fall and winter.
Which fertilizer is best for snake plants?
For snake plants, choose a balanced formula, such as a 10-10-10 blend, which ensures that the nutrients fit your plant’s specific requirements. It’s also best to choose one that’s either water-soluble or in liquid form, as they’re much easier to manage.
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food
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The best fertilizer for Snake Plants, giving them the right balance of nutrients without overfeeding. Supports slow, steady growth while keeping leaves firm and healthy
It’s important to follow package instructions closely and water your plant well after application. Otherwise, there’s a risk of over-fertilization, leading to root burn or plant stress
All that said, some people do prefer organic fertilizers for their natural ingredients and gentle effects on the soil.
Composted materials, fish emulsions, and worm castings are excellent low-nitrogen options for snake plants. They release nutrients slowly, leading to a steady growth rate without risking burns from overfeeding.
Organic matter can also improve soil structure and water retention, offering better support for your plant roots. While they might not provide an instant nutrient boost, they’re more environmentally friendly.
When to fertilize snake plants
Knowing when to fertilize snake plants is important for keeping them healthy. You should pay attention to the seasons and signs that you’re over-fertilizing.
In particular, snake plants should be fertilized during their growing season, which is spring and summer. During this time, apply a balanced fertilizer once a month to support this active phase.
In contrast, reduce fertilization in fall and winter as growth slows down. During these seasons, you can even skip fertilizing altogether, as the plant enters a dormant period.
Over-fertilizing during dormancy could be harmful, leading to weakened or stressed plants.
Signs of over-fertilizing
It’s crucial to recognize signals of too much fertilizer. Yellowing leaves on your snake plant can indicate an excess of nutrients, which might cause root damage. Wilted or browning leaf tips are another sign you may be overdoing it.
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If symptoms appear, first flush the soil with water to remove surplus salts and fertilizers. Scaling back on future applications will help restore balance.
Make sure you’re following the recommended fertilizer amount and frequency to prevent further issues.
How to fertilize snake plants
Fertilizing snake plants requires a thoughtful approach to ensure healthy growth. Start by preparing the soil properly, use effective application techniques, and follow through with care after fertilization.
Pre-fertilization soil prep
Make sure the soil drains well, as snake plants do poorly in soggy conditions. A mix of potting soil and perlite delivers excellent drainage – or just buy a cactus or succulent potting mix (like my preferred one below!) that has the perfect amount of drainage for these plants.
Miracle-Gro Succulent Potting Mix
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The best soil for Snake Plants, providing the perfect balance of drainage and nutrients. Designed to support strong roots and prevent excess moisture, keeping your Snake Plant thriving
Additionally, loosen the top layer of soil gently with a small garden fork or your fingers. This will help the roots absorb the fertilizer more effectively. Avoid packing the soil too tightly, as compacted soil will hinder nutrient absorption.
Finally, before fertilizing, water your plant lightly to aid in the nutrient uptake process.
Application techniques
Choose a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula. Dilute the fertilizer to half its strength by mixing it with water, which minimizes the risk of burning the plant roots.
Apply the diluted mixture directly onto the soil rather than the leaves or stem, pouring it evenly around the base of the plant.
Post-fertilization care
After fertilizing, monitor your snake plant for any changes in color or growth. Dark green leaves indicate a healthy nutrient level, while yellowing leaves may signal over-fertilization. In such cases, it’s crucial to flush the soil with water to clear excess nutrients.
Keep the plant in a spot that receives indirect light to continue promoting healthy growth. Regularly ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes, preventing water from sitting at the bottom.
Remember to wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to maximize photosynthesis efficiency by keeping the leaf surfaces clean.
Avoiding common mistakes
To ensure your snake plant thrives, it’s important to pay attention to appropriate nutrient formulas and prevent the accumulation of harmful salts. Proper care can make a significant difference in plant health and growth, helping your plant to stay vibrant.
Choosing the right formula
When fertilizing, it’s crucial to pick a formula suited for snake plants. Opt for a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, typically one with an even ratio like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.
This balance helps provide equal parts of essential nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
You’ll want to apply the fertilizer during the growing season, usually spring and summer. During these months, the plant needs more nutrients to support its growth.
Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down dramatically.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you’re using the right amount. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn or even damage the plant.
Always err on the cautious side, and consider diluting the recommended dose to prevent overfeeding.
Avoiding excess salts
Excess salts can accumulate in the soil, harming your snake plant. These salts typically come from fertilizers and can cause leaf browning or tip burn.
To mitigate this issue, consider using distilled water for your plant, as tap water can add additional salts.
Flushing the soil periodically also helps remove these salts. This process involves watering the plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out. Doing this every few months can clear out salt build-up, promoting healthier soil conditions.
Be aware of the symptoms of salt build-up. If you notice salt crusts on the soil surface or leaf tips turning brown, take action immediately by adjusting your watering and fertilizing schedule to prevent further salt accumulation.
FAQs
Caring for snake plants isn’t that difficult, as these plants tend to be pretty hardy and low-maintenance – but they do also benefit from occasional fertilizing to promote healthy growth. Proper application and choice of fertilizer ensure your plant thrives.
Here’s what you need to know about fertilizing your snake plant.
What’s the ideal frequency for fertilizing a snake plant?
You should fertilize your snake plant about once a month during the growing season, which is spring through early fall. In the winter months, it’s best to hold off as the plant’s growth slows down. Over-fertilizing can harm your plant, so less is more.
Consistency matters. The best approach is using a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer diluted to half strength. This gives your snake plant the nutrients it needs without overwhelming it.
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The best fertilizer for Snake Plants, giving them the right balance of nutrients without overfeeding. Supports slow, steady growth while keeping leaves firm and healthy
How can I create a homemade fertilizer for my snake plant?
Homemade fertilizers can be simple and effective. One option is using compost teas made from soaking compost in water for 24 hours, which can be used to water your plants. Crushed eggshells or banana peels blended with water can be another option.
These natural choices provide essential nutrients. Remember to apply sparingly to avoid nutrient overload.
It’s also important to wash any residue off the leaves to prevent build-up.
Can I use coffee grounds as a fertilizer for snake plants?
While coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, they can be too acidic for snake plants if used in large quantities. It’s best to use them in moderation, mixing a small amount into the soil or compost. Ensure they’re dry to prevent mold growth.
Too much acidity can stress your plant. If you notice brown tips, cut back on coffee grounds and switch to something less acidic.
Can I use Miracle-Gro on my snake plant?
You can use Miracle-Gro, but it’s important to dilute it to half the recommended strength on the package. Apply it during the active growing periods and avoid using it in the dormant winter months. Overuse can lead to root burn and foliage issues.
Miracle-Gro contains essential nutrients that support healthy growth. Just remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution with the amount used.
What’s the best liquid fertilizer for snake plants?
A balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer works well for snake plants. Look for fertilizers labeled as “all-purpose” or “houseplant” formulas. These provide an even distribution of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Liquid fertilizers should always be diluted to half-strength. Apply during regular watering, ensuring you’re not overdoing it, especially in cooler months.
What are some natural fertilizer options for snake plants?
Banana peels and eggshells are great natural options. Eggshells add calcium, while banana peels provide potassium – both beneficial for snake plants. Compost tea is also beneficial, offering a range of nutrients and supporting soil health.
Natural fertilizers can break down slowly, providing longer-lasting nourishment. They’re gentle on plants and can be mixed into the soil or brewed as a tea for watering.