According to Dr. Amelia, horticulturist, “Light rain can benefit snake plants by providing extra moisture.”
As a seasoned indoor plant enthusiast, I often get asked if it’s okay to place snake plants outside when it’s drizzling.
While rainwater contains beneficial minerals for these resilient succulents, overwatering can lead to root rot.
The key is moderation.
A brief shower here and there does no harm, but prolonged downpours require sheltering these desert-dwellers.
With proper care, just a splash of rain allows snake plants to thrive without getting soaked.
Now let’s explore the ideal watering practices to keep your snakes happy both inside and out.
KEY TAKEAWAY
What are the benefits and precautions of putting snake plants in rain?
While rain can naturally benefit snake plants by providing hydration and promoting growth, it’s crucial to take precautions during heavy rainfall…
… to prevent waterlogged soil and potential damage, ensuring the plants thrive in all weather conditions.
The Refreshing Benefits of Rainwater for Snake Plants
Provides the Perfect Amount of Moisture
Snake plants are very tolerant of dry soil (1), but too little water can leave them thirsty!
Rain gently waters snake plants from above so the dirt doesn’t get soggy.
This means the soil stays moist enough to keep your snake friend happy without any risk of root rot from overwatering.
Getting water from above like rain is much better than from below by watering the soil.
Just think, would you rather take a cool shower or have a big bowl of water dumped on your head?
Rain mimics nature’s way of hydration so snake plants love it!
The moisture filters down gradually through the potting mix for the perfect drink.
Gives a Natural Nutrition Boost
Contrary to what you may think, rainwater is actually better for plants than plain old tap water!
Rain contains small amounts of nutrients that are washed out of the air like nitrogen, phosphorus, and magnesium.
These natural minerals act as a little pick-me-up of plant food to spur new growth and lush foliage.
Some research has even found that rainfall can encourage snake plants to produce more leaves and even bloom which is always exciting to see!
So the nutrition boost from rain gives your green friend what it needs to thrive indoors where it doesn’t get as many goodies from the soil.
Keep those minerals coming with rainwater for extra healthy, happy snakes!
Sparkling Clean Leaves Mean Better Breathing
After a good drenching from the skies, snake plants have never looked shinier!
The raindrops wash away any dust or dirt that may cling to waxy leaves.
This cleaning helps the plant photosynthesize and produce more sweet oxygen for us.
Not only that, but studies show that certain types of snake plants purify indoor air by absorbing toxins like benzene and formaldehyde.
So when their leaves are wiped spotless by rainfall, they can work at peak pollution filtering power for cleaner air.
So your plants stay fresh and your lungs stay happy thanks to the power of a rain cleanse!
Precautions When Snake Plants Feel the Rain
Watch Out for Pests or Fungal Fuss
Keeping an eye out for any problems is always a good idea when weather conditions change.
Pests like spider mites can thrive in warm, humid environments.
Too much moisture lingering around plant roots also promotes mold or root rot issues.
If you notice any strange spots on leaves or webbing in between snake plant strands, it’s best to isolate the affected plant asap.
You don’t want pests or diseases to spread.
A helpful preventative measure is to trim away any rotten or mushy areas on leaves with pruner scissors before new growth emerges.
Don’t Let Water Pool in the Pot or Tray
While snake plants are very low maintenance and drainage is less crucial compared to other houseplants, still be sure your pots have holes on the bottom. (2)
Proper drainage means water won’t sit around roots for too long.
Raise pots off surfaces slightly if leaving them outside, to allow airflow underneath.
Snake plants prefer to stay dry between waterings, so remove any standing water from trays below pots right after rainfall ends.
If rain continues heavy for days, don’t leave plants sitting in puddles or they may get root rot even though properly draining soil sits inside the pot.
Shelter from Heavy Downpours and Sun Shine
If a torrential tropical storm just hit your area, it’s probably best not to leave delicate snake plants exposed to the elements.
Give a break from direct sun beating down if constant rain is forecasted.
Too much water can weigh down leaves and compact moist soil.
A covered patio or shade under trees provides protection from harsh weather conditions while still benefiting from some fresh air and moisture.
Don’t let snake plants get soaked for hours during heavy rainfall or high gusts of wind that may damage waxy leaves.
Understanding the Wonderful World of Snake Plants
Different Types to Try
Within the genus Sansevieria, there exists over 60 unique varieties of snake plants for you to explore!
Some popular options to consider include:
- Sansevieria trifasciata, known by its common name ‘Mother-in-law’s Tongue’. It features dramatic vertical stripes in shades of grayish-green that stand out beautifully. The leaves grow over 3 feet tall making quite a statement.
- The cylindrical shaped Sansevieria cylindrica, produces upright green cylinders rather than flat leaves. This compact form stays below 2 feet, perfect for confinement on small surfaces.
- Sansevieria ‘Golden Hahnii’ with its eye-catching bright gold banded leaves that appears as though it was brushed with gold paint. Certain cultivars have leaves edged in yellow or cream rather than solid gold.
- S. kirkii features dark green blade-like leaves with a contrasting dramatic yellow edge. It has an upright growing habit suited to tabletops and shelves.
- Sansevieria masoniana is a bushier variety with short thick leaves growing in tight clusters. Despite its squat stature, it holds its own amongst taller plants with an upright habit perfect for smaller spaces.
No matter the cultivar though, all snake plants possess a striking unique appearance whether you prefer bold stripes, soft variegated tones or thick blade shapes.
Their easy care nature makes them suitable for a vast range of homes.
Finding the perfect match is part of the enjoyment of keeping these resilient plants.
Low Maintenance Champs
Snake plants are celebrated as one of the easiest houseplants to care for thanks to their tough as nails nature.
Their waxy leaves allow for minimal watering between long dry periods without any harmful effects.
These fast growing plants also thrive with little light, making them an excellent choice for darker corners.
Plus, snake plants provide benefits beyond their simple care.
Research shows many varieties efficiently remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air.
Snake plants make a fab natural air purifier without much effort at all from you! Their hardy nature means thriving for years to come with proper Care.
Tips for Your Snake Plant Pals in Rainy Weather
During storm season, it’s important to keep an eye on your scaly companions.
A bit of extra care will help them weather the fun showers unharmed.
Inspect leaves often for any undesirable visitors taking shelter.
Spider mites find wet nooks very cozy, so check plant junctions.
Isolate any infested plants asap to stop others from being eaten.
Leave space between pots too, so air can circulate and prevent mold or bugs from spreading.
Use drainage holes and a fast draining rich soil to prevent roots sitting in puddles.
Move potted pals under eaves or porches in heavy downpours.
A covered area keeps leaves from being pounded all day.
Check moist soil doesn’t get packed tight which can cause stem rot.
Check the dryness between waterings to avoid oversaturation indoors especially.
Wiggle your finger an inch down, it should feel dry to avoid root issues underwater friends.
Trim off any yellowing or mushy leaf segments before new growth appears.
This keeps plants healthy during damp months.
With a little extra monitoring, your snake pals will love rainy season adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do snake plants need direct sunlight?
Snake plants can grow in a variety of light conditions, from low light to bright indirect light.
While snake plants can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon, they may not need full sun.
Snake plants grow well under bright light conditions such as in a living room…
… or next to an east or west-facing window where it receives partial or indirect light.
How often should I water my snake plant?
Snake plants are succulents well-adapted to dry out completely between waterings and tolerate long periods without water.
Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering your snake plant again.
A good rule of care is to water when the soil feels dry to the touch, around every 2-4 weeks.
Infrequent watering helps prevent overwatering, root rot and helps snake plants…
… live indoors for many years as a perfect plant for any home.
What kind of soil and potting mix is best for snake plants?
Most indoor snake plant varieties like sansevieria trifasciata, also known as mother in law’s tongue, thrive in well-draining potting soil.
A soil mix of 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite or gravel helps ensure the soil drains well and does not stay soggy.
Snake plants can tolerate a range of temperature requirements and soil conditions.
Replenish the top of the pot with new soil if the plant becomes pot bound or root bound in a small terra cotta pot over time.
Can snake plants tolerate temperatures outdoors?
While snake plants are well-suited as indoor house plants, many varieties can also…
… grow outdoors and tolerate a range of temperatures when acclimated.
Dracaena trifasciata and other snake plant varieties can tolerate temperatures down…
… to around 50°F/10°C and will thrive with protection from direct sun and wind.
Gradually moving plants outdoors and providing afternoon shade helps them adjust to outdoor living.
Water less frequently when outdoors.
How do I propagate snake plants?
Snake plants are easy to propagate and new plant growth makes them a perfect plant to gift.
Simply break or cut off healthy snake plant leaves and allow the cut end to dry and callous over before placing in a small pot with well-draining soil.
Keep the soil moist but not soaked.
Within a few weeks new roots should form and within a few months a new snake plant pup will emerge and be ready for its own pot.
How do I care for a root bound snake plant?
Over time in small pots, snake plants can become root bound which prevents new growth.
Replacing root bound snake plants in a slightly larger terra cotta pot using a fresh soil mix once a year ensures healthy growth.
Gently remove the plant from its pot and loosen the outer roots to spread them out before repotting.
Water sparingly while the plant adjusts to its new home.
Check soil moisture with your finger before watering to avoid overwatering.
Conclusion
In summary, snake plants can absolutely thrive when given the gift of rainfall, as long as a few basic precautions are followed.
Their waxy leaves allow them to drink in water from above without fear of rot setting in.
The helpful minerals and cleansed foliage that rain provides also spur on new growth and keep air fresh indoors.
Of course, too much of a good thing means keeping a close eye for any fungal friends or other pests taking advantage of extra moisture.
Ensure pots drain well to avoid roots sitting in soggy soil.
With a bit more care given during wet weather, like moving pots…
… under cover or monitoring moisture levels, snake plants will be showered…
… with the benefits of the rainy season while staying out of harm’s way from heavy downpours.
If you have any other questions about keeping your scaly companions happy in the rain or any other time, please feel free to leave a comment below.
I’d love to offer more advice tailored to your household environment.
With the right guidance, your snake plants can enjoy rainy adventures for many years to come.
References
- https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/houseplants/2019/how-often-water-snake-plant#:~:text=Use%20caution%20growing%20snake%20plants,can%20lead%20to%20root%20rot.
- https://www.thespruce.com/snake-plant-care-overview-1902772
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- https://knowngarden.com/a-snake-plant-what-you-need-to-know-before-buying-one/