Snake plants, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue or Sansevieria, are popular houseplants known for their hardiness and low maintenance requirements. However, their slow growth rate can be frustrating for gardeners who want to see faster results. Is there any methods to make snake plants grow faster ?Let’s have a try.
Provide Optimal Growing Conditions for Your Snake Plant
Like all plants, snake plants will thrive when provided with the right care and environment. Here are some key things to focus on.
Light
Snake plants prefer bright, indirect light. Some morning or late afternoon sun is fine, but avoid intense midday sun which can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light will result in slow, leggy growth.
Water
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, then soak the soil completely. Underwatering can cause slow growth, but overwatering is worse and may lead to root rot. The plant’s thick, succulent leaves store water so you can often go 2-3 weeks without watering a mature plant.
Temperature & Humidity
Snake plants grow best in warm temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C). Cooler temps below 55°F (13°C) can slow growth. Average room humidity is fine, no need for high humidity.
Soil & Fertilizer
Use a well-draining potting mix, and fertilize monthly in the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Slow release granular fertilizer applied in spring can also boost growth.
Pot Size
Repot into a slightly larger pot if the roots have filled the current container. This allows room for expansion and growth.
Control Pests & Diseases
Snake plants are quite resistant to pests and diseases when cared for properly. However, issues like fungal diseases, mealybugs, and scale can slow growth rates. Inspect plants regularly and address any problems that appear right away. Isolate affected plants and use organic insecticidal soap, neem oil, or appropriate fungicides as needed.
Consider Supplemental Lighting
During winter months when light levels are lower, providing supplemental artificial lighting can help maintain faster growth rates. Use full spectrum LED grow lights positioned 6-12 inches above the plant for 12-16 hours daily. Time the lights to be on when natural light is at its lowest.
Provide Ideal Air Circulation
Stagnant, stale air can lead to slower growth as it reduces air exchange and oxygen availability for the plant. Use circulating fans, open windows occasionally, or gently blow air over the plant using a hand fan to keep air moving around the leaves.
Use Growth Promoting Supplements
Specialized supplements containing seaweed extract, cytokinins, gibberellic acid, or other growth boosters can give some extra speed when used properly. Follow label directions as products vary. Rotating between different supplements prevents Dependency on one formula.
Give the Plant Time to Adjust & Establish
After repotting or moving a snake plant to a new location, allow 1-2 months for the plant to settle in before expecting fast growth. Transplant shock can initially slow things down until the roots expand in the new soil. Be patient!
Manage Your Expectations
While you can speed things up, snake plants are not going to grow as quickly as many other houseplants like pothos or philodendrons. Their growth habit is naturally on the slower side. Focus on optimal care and applying growth tips, but don’t expect overnight miracles!
When to Expect Faster Growth?
- With proper care and some growth-boosting tricks, you should see your snake plant putting out new leaves a little more frequently. However, the time of year impacts growth rates too.
- Spring is often the most active growth period as light levels increase, temperatures warm, and the plant exits winter dormancy.
- Summer growth may slow a bit in very hot climates but continue steadily if temperatures are within an optimal range.
- Growth in fall might slow again as light dims but can stay consistent indoors.
- Winter brings slower growth in low light and cold environments, but indoor plants continue moderate growth year-round.
Conclusion
Be patient, use the tips outlined above, and you should be rewarded with a faster growing snake plant. Consistent care and optimal conditions will produce the best results over time. Enjoy watching your plant fill out and reach its growth potential!