“Why is my sansevieria turning yellow?”

You may ask this question when you realize that there is something off from your snake plants. You may have noticed that the blades of your sansevieria are turning yellow for several reasons. Then you’re in the right place! This article explains all the problems that may arise and how to solve them. Let’s investigate and figure this out!

Why Is My Sansevieria Turning Yellow?

Sansevieria is also referred to as a snake plant and mother-in-law’s tongue. Basically, this plant is easy to care for. But anything can happen, right? You might be properly caring for your plant, but the leaves could become soft and yellow. The leaves of snake plants can become yellow and soft because of root diseases and overwatering. Leaves can also turn yellow due to underwatering, excessive sunlight, over-fertilization, fungal diseases, and insect infestations.

The followings are some of the possible causes of yellow leaves on snake plants. Let’s find the answer of your question why is my sansevieria turning yellow?

Overwatering 

In other words, you are basically plotting the death of your snake plant when you overwater it. There is that much danger in it. Yellow plants indicate that you are not doing something right! Time to change your watering habits and save the snake plant at once. 

It’s important to know the underlying cause of yellowing leaves. Ideally, the leaves should be in good health. Plants that are in good health have dark green leaves. If you notice that the leaves’ color is off, overwatering is probably the first thing that comes to mind. 

If roots are overwatered, they can rot. To drain excess water, you only need to provide an adequate amount of water and make sure that drainage is adequate. Don’t overdo it or underdo it! A stagnant pool of water will create an ideal environment for the growth of fungi. We certainly don’t want to see that happen. Snake plants need to be watered twice a week to twice a month. Or you can observe when the soil seems to be dry. You have to take care of the plant based on its need for water. 

Sunlight Overexposure

There is a possibility that the plant is receiving too much sunlight! That’s right, you heard it right. As with being too exposed to the sun, sunburn can occur. The same can happen to your snake plant if you keep it outdoors or in an area where the sun shines brightly. Snake plant leaves can also be damaged by sunlight emanating from your window. Because the glass in the window sometimes enhances the sun’s rays, causing more water to evaporate. As a result, the leaves will turn yellow or have brown tips.

It is true that snake plants are easy to care for. This is usually why people prefer such plants. But it doesn’t mean you should ignore the main factors that contribute to the plant’s health. A plant shouldn’t be overexposed to the sun. Indirect sunlight is more beneficial for your plants. So, find the right spot to place your plants in indirect sunlight even though it will require some effort.

Underwatering 

Perhaps you’re too busy with your daily routine. There’s also a chance you’ve heard that snake plants can live without water for a long time. Or maybe you went on vacation. Whatever the reason is, you may accidentally neglect your plants and let them thirst! You may think : “Maybe this is one of the reasons why is my sansevieria turning yellow.”

Inadequate underwatering will show some similar signs to overwatering. Underwatering causes the root system to be unable to absorb enough water and nutrients to conduct physiological functions. Nutrients remain in soluble form in the soil. Without water, your snake plant cannot take advantage of the soil’s essential nutrients. 

Excessive Watering

A plant that is overwatered becomes yellow and dehydrated. Watering your snake plants correctly is crucial. By checking the soil, you can determine when to water the plants. By checking on it, you will know whether you are overwatering, or underwatering.

Root Rot 

Root rot can damage the overall functionality of the root system. Providing too much water to the snake plants can cause root rot. Then the root system will get damaged and start to decay. Thus, when the root rot develops the plant won’t be getting enough nutrients that are important for survival and growth. As the result, the leaves would start turning yellow.

When you are giving too much water to your precious plant than it actually needs, a fungus can develop on the roots. In addition to excessive water, root rot can be caused by contaminants in the soil and containers and a poor drainage system.  The root zone is also very prone to fungal growth due to poor air circulation as well as compact soils and moist conditions. Eventually, the roots of the snake plant will die due to the fungus.

Maintaining hygiene for your snake plant’s soil and container will help you avoid diseases such as root rot. Snake plants should be examined for root rot as soon as possible. Observing the color of snake plant leaves is very easy when you are taking care of them. Consider repotting the plant if you notice the roots have been damaged. It is better to use dry soil than wet soil. You can also repot the plant using the potting mix. Ensure you repotted the plant correctly. After repotting, you should use the correct soil mix and choose a suitable place for the plant.

Insect Infestation 

Snake plants may have yellow leaves due to insect infestation. Having such a problem would not only result in yellow leaves but would also weaken the plant. It is important to keep your snake plants healthy! That’s why pests need to be dealt with immediately. The infestation is not to be ignored. Check on your snake plants regularly and be careful of mealybugs, aphids, and more.