How often do snake plants need watering?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Instead of watering snake plants on a regular schedule, watering is simply a matter of a "dry soil check" method. You can verify how dry the soil is by sticking a finger two inches (5 cm) down into the potting soil (to the first knuckle). Water only when the soil is arid at that depth. I have been able to keep mine alive for years by following this approach. It prevents root rot and still accommodates seasonal shifts.
Summer Routine
- Water every 2-3 weeks during active growth phase
- Check soil weekly as higher temperatures dry faster
- Provide thorough soaking until water drains from pot bottom
Winter Dormancy
- Reduce watering to monthly or longer intervals
- Test soil monthly since growth slows significantly
- Water lightly without full soil saturation
Transition Periods
- Spring/fall: Water every 3-4 weeks as conditions shift
- Monitor light exposure changes affecting drying speed
- Adjust gradually over 2-3 weeks when seasons change
Utilize appropriate tools and methods to ensure an accurate assessment of moisture. Wooden chopsticks are better than fingers to check moisture levels in deeper pots. Soil moisture meters can provide instant, digital readings of moisture levels for more precise measurements. Personally, I have always preferred the finger test for instant feedback on the moisture level. Terracotta pots allow for evaporation, while plastic pots retain moisture for much longer. It is best to utilize the correct tool depending on the type of pot you are using.
Plant recovery from improper watering techniques can be achieved effectively. For plants suffering from overwatering, remove them from a state of moisture very quickly. Cut back to healthy roots using sterile plant scissors. Repot with dry cactus potting medium. For plants suffering from underwatering, the rehydration process will take time, so be patient and allow it to proceed at its own pace. Lightly water the other plants for three days. The plants I rescued took between three months and a year to recover and regain their health.
Adjust watering to suit your environment. For example, you would water less in a humid climate than in a dry environment. A dry, air-conditioned room will dry the soil out more quickly than a damp bathroom. Check your plant weekly! I adjust the frequency of my watering based on the seasonal humidity levels. By checking in on a schedule, you can catch potential problems before you notice damage to the plant.
Read the full article: 10 Benefits of Snake Plant Revealed
