The African spear plant, which is also called the cylindrical snake plant, is a succulent houseplant with spear-shaped, pointy, gray-green leaves that are slightly striped. African spear plants do best in hot, dry places with sandy, well-draining soil. They also like it warmer in the morning than in the afternoon. This plant is toxic to pets. Read on for our care guide.
As a popular indoor plant known for its cylindrical, spear-shaped leaves, the cylindrical snake plant (Sansevieria cylindrica) is loved for its striking appearance and resilience However, knowing how often to water this drought-tolerant succulent is key to keeping it healthy and thriving In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the watering needs of the cylindrical snake plant and provide helpful tips for cultivating vigorous growth.
Understanding the Water Needs of Cylindrical Snake Plants
Cylindrical snake plants store water in their thick, succulent leaves, allowing them to withstand periods of drought. As succulents native to arid regions of Africa, they have adapted to sparse, infrequent watering. Too much moisture can lead to potentially fatal root rot. On the other hand, prolonged drought can cause the leaves to shrivel. Finding the right balance is essential.
Factors That Influence Water Needs
Several key factors determine how often to water your cylindrical snake plant
-
Pot size – Plants in smaller pots require more frequent watering than those in larger pots.
-
Soil mix – A well-draining cactus/succulent soil allows excess moisture to drain away from the roots.
-
Light exposure – More light causes the plant to use water faster. Less light, slower growth, less frequent watering.
-
Temperature & humidity – Warmer and drier conditions cause quicker moisture loss requiring more frequent watering.
-
Plant maturity – Younger plants may need more water than mature, established ones.
How to Determine When to Water Your Cylindrical Snake Plant
Rather than sticking to a fixed schedule, it’s best to check the soil and observe the plant to determine when it needs water.
The “Feel & Check” Method
Use these simple steps to decide if your cylindrical snake plant needs water:
-
Feel the soil – Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the pot. If dry, it’s time to water.
-
Check pot weight – Pick up the pot. Light means dry, heavy means wet.
-
Inspect leaves – If leaves appear wrinkled or curled, the plant is thirsty.
Signs of Underwatering
- Leaves are shriveled, wrinkled, or curled inward
- Soft, bendable leaves
- Soil is bone dry
- Pot feels very lightweight when picked up
Signs of Overwatering
- Yellow, translucent leaves
- Soft, mushy leaves
- Foul odor from rotting roots
- Water dripping from drainage holes
- Pot feels heavy
How Frequently to Water Cylindrical Snake Plants
As a general guideline, water your cylindrical snake plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil have dried out. Use your finger to test moisture levels. During the active growing period (spring through fall), this is typically every 2-3 weeks. In the dormant winter months, you can go 4-6 weeks between thorough waterings.
Specific frequency depends on your plant’s size, soil mix, lighting conditions and other factors. Observe it carefully and adjust as needed. Smaller pots or brighter light causes faster drying. Water less in winter’s cool temperatures and low humidity.
Helpful Watering Tips
-
Water thoroughly until it drains from the holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root zone is hydrated.
-
Allow excess water to drain completely after watering. Empty any water that collects in decorative outer pots.
-
Water in the morning to allow the foliage time to dry. Wet leaves at night encourage disease.
-
Use room temperature water, not cold.
-
Mist leaves occasionally to increase humidity.
-
In winter, reduce watering frequency and quantity.
Recovery Steps for an Overwatered Cylindrical Snake Plant
If you suspect your plant is overwatered, take action right away. An overwatered snake plant can quickly decline.
-
Remove from pot and inspect roots for rot. Trim off any mushy roots.
-
Repot in fresh, dry soil mix, ensuring the pot has drainage holes.
-
Allow the plant to fully dry out before watering again. It may take several weeks.
-
Move to a sunny spot to encourage drying.
-
Cut off any damaged leaves or stems to reduce risk of disease.
-
Avoid watering on a schedule. Only water when soil is completely dry.
-
Consider using a soil moisture meter to remove the guesswork.
With its low maintenance nature, the cylindrical snake plant is a great choice for beginner gardeners when provided with proper care. Pay close attention to its watering needs, follow the “feel and check” method, and your spear-leaved beauty will flourish.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/how-often-to-water-snake-plants-hero-7c353647932448349e0a05395be072dd.jpg)
Water
African spear plants can survive prolonged periods of drought. Being left in soggy soil or standing water for too long can cause the roots to rot. Let the soil dry out between waterings, then water the plant deeply. Watering every week to every other week is generally enough.
If you are growing your plant in a pot, use the drainage holes to empty the saucer of any extra water.
Bloom Months
The blooming of an African spear plant is random and not tied to a certain month. It may happen in the winter to get ready for the growing season in the spring.
Water Your Snake Plant (Sansevieria) Properly
FAQ
Why are the tips of my Cylindrical snake plant turning brown?
How to care for cylindrica snake plant?
How much light does a Cylindrical snake plant need?
How often should you water a snake plant?
In general, this means watering your snake plant every 2-4 weeks, depending on the environmental factors mentioned above. In warmer months, you may need to water every 2 weeks, while during cooler months, it may stretch to once every 4-6 weeks. 2. Watering Snake Plants in Different Seasons
How do you care for a cylinder snake plant?
Any problems with growing Sansevieria are usually related to watering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. If in doubt, keep it on the dry side. The only things that will kill Cylindrical Snake Plant is soggy soil and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Limp leaves are either caused by lack of sunlight or overwatering.
Do snake plants need a lot of water?
Spring and Summer: Snake plants are in their active growth phase during these seasons, so they will require more water. Water every 2-3 weeks, ensuring the top layer of soil dries out before watering again. Fall and Winter: During colder months, snake plants go into a semi-dormant state, meaning they require much less water.
How do you repot a cylindrical snake plant?
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. If in doubt, keep it on the dry side. The only things that will kill Cylindrical Snake Plant is soggy soil and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Limp leaves are either caused by lack of sunlight or overwatering. Repot in spring, only when plants get crowded and need dividing.
How does a cylindrical snake plant grow?
Cylindrical snake plants grow from rhizomes, which are little bulbs that grow in the dirt. These rhizomes are thick underground plant stems that send off roots and shoots. They store starches, water and proteins for the plant, which is why the cylindrical snake plant is drought-tolerant.
How big does a cylinder snake plant get?
Upright leaves tend to be dust-catchers — gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free. How big does it get? Cylindrical Snake Plant can grow up to 2 ft (60 cm) tall, growing indoors in a container.