Plants are introduced into a space to bring a sense of nature indoors. We have an innate sense of being connected to nature as humans. Today, they are frequently used as inspiration to improve our built environments. Their vibrant colours also help add freshness to the space.
The purposes of plants vary, from flowering plants and aesthetic decor plants to oxygen-giving plants. The snake plant can be called a complete package regarding these features. It can be set up in any theme of decor and is one of the most oxygen-giving plants out there. It originates from tropical Africa and is adapted to arid environments. Let’s dive into a more in-depth understanding of the snake plant.
What does a Snake Plant do to the Indoors?
Now that the need to reduce air pollution has been recognized, the word ‘snake plant’ may be a familiar household word. The most common use of having a snake plant in your home is to get fresh air out of it. It is also known to have carbon dioxide-eliminating properties that purify the air around us. Aside from these benefits, there are numerous other advantages of snake plants that you should consider. .
The Good and Bad Side of the Snake Plant at your Home
Let’s have a look at the benefits and drawbacks of the snake plant. Let’s head on towards the pros of the snake plant:
Pros of a Snake Plant at Home
01. The Night Owl of Oxygen
Most plants can’t produce oxygen at night as there is no sunlight available for them to kick-start the process of photosynthesis. This differentiates the oxygen-producing capabilities of the snake plant from others. Unlike most plants, the snake plant can convert the carbon dioxide present in its wide leaves into oxygen even without the help of sunlight. This is because their leaves contain crassulacean acid metabolism. Apart from that, it also produces one of the highest amounts of oxygen compared to other plants. This makes it an ideal choice to have at home.
02. Aesthetic with the Leaf
The snake plant has an exquisite and attractive appearance. You can concur with this if you’ve seen a snake plant. Its leaf structure is linear compared to most plants. The leaves are also distinct and separate rather than clumped and asymmetrical. The contrasting yellow edges with the dark green horizontal texture bring out its visual appeal even further, making it fit into most aesthetics seamlessly.
03. Pollutant Cleaner
The need for an air purifier has increased over time. What could possibly be a better method of air purification than the natural way? The snake plant offers you the benefit of the same with its ability to remove toxins from the air. Pollutants like carbon dioxide, benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene are some that we are constantly surrounded with and that are proven to be carcinogenic in nature. The most successful method of getting rid of them in such as a setting is to introduce large-leafed plants, such a snake plant. In the words of Sara Chana Silverstein, the snake plant has the ability to absorb toxins and poisonous gases from the air. It is among the toughest of all houseplants and can withstand virtually any condition. It excludes water vapours in large quantities to provide natural humidity.
04. Sweeps out the Allergens
Allergens travelling through the air might seem unstoppable. But the snake plant offers as a solution to that as well. Due to its ability to absorb volatile and harmful compounds in the air, the space that is surrounded by snake plants proves to be free of any such allergens. That, in turn, reduces the chances of you getting any type of airborne allergies.
05. Its Importance in Feng Shui
Who knew that the snake plant also had importance in the Chinese practice of Feng Shui, which uses energy as the main element to harmonize the surroundings with us. Though there is a misconception that it is not a good plant when it comes to Feng Shui, the fact is that snake plant can bring purifying energy into a space when placed in an ideal position. The ideal places to keep them would be the southern, south-eastern, and eastern corners of a space. According to Garden labs, Snake plant is helpful in maintaining positive energy in your house or office. If you are a busy person who wants to benefit from Feng Shui without spending much time on plant care, snake plants are a great pick for you.
06. Simple Maintainance
Are you worried about whether the plant will die in your absence? That is far from being true. It is because the snake plant can thrive in any condition. It lives on whether it is a bright sunny day or a neglected day in the shade with no water. It is one of the easiest plants to care for, especially when you are neglectful.
07. Drought Resistant
This plant can thrive even when no water is available. Therefore, it can be categorized as a drought-resistant plant.. Due to this ability, it can thrive in the winter by just being watered once a month. In such scenarios, watering more frequently kills the plant. That makes it a must-have for any season in any country.
08. Extra Step of Care
As a result of its low maintenance factor, the need for special fertilizers and care is also eliminated here. You can choose to provide it with good fertilizer once a month, but it can thrive even if that is not done, unlike other plants. When it comes to fertilizer, the more natural you use, the better it is. Some of the examples are tea compost, cow dung, cow urine, other organic wastes, etc.
Cons of Snake Plant at Home
01. Slow and Steady Wins the Race!
When buying a plant for our household, we expect it to adhere to the standard norm of growth. The placement of the snake plant indoors, unlike others, causes it to slow down its rate of growth. A common factor of the pot being restrictive also adds to the slow down.
02. Propagation Problems
The two most common ways of propagating are by the use of water and by cutting. When one propagates the snake plant using water, there is a high chance that the plant will die due to overwatering. The roots can rot and there will be nothing more to work on. On the other hand, cutting can pose the risk of the plant getting damaged in the process.
03. The Toxic Kind
With the life-giving benefits of producing the most oxygen, these plants also prove to be toxic, especially when ingested. The toxicity is caused by a chemical called saponin. It helps the plants repel insects and fungus. It is also considered a medication in some parts of the world where it is applied topically.
When this chemical is ingested into human bodies, it causes gastrointestinal problems. The intensity of your reaction is determined by the amount of chemical ingested into your body. It is not an issue in a house of adults. But in the case of pets and children, their curiosity could result in a painful day.
04. White Leaves?
A snake plant’s leaves give it a distinct look. Imagine if this leaf were to fall or turn white all of a sudden. This could indicate that the plant is ill. It would be a sign for you to seek assistance and deal with the issue. The curling of leaves is also a sign of poor health. It could range from the surrounding temperatures to the way the plant is potted.
05. Prefers Cold Weather
Although the plant is said to adapt to varying temperatures and climates, it does become susceptible to sudden changes. Snake plants prefer temperatures ranging from 550F to 850F. They show signs of being under too much heat when brown rings start forming on the leaf. The snake plant prefers a space that receives indirect sunlight and grows well indoors.
06. Fungal Attacks and Root Rots
The two most common issues that snake plants face are root rot and fungal infections. Although the chemical in their leaves is a natural fungal repellent, it will have its limitations. On the other hand, root rot is quite a common issue when it comes to snake plants. It can be identified by smelling the pot for a funky smell. Also look for signs such as mushy roots and yellow or brown leaves.
07. Bringing Bad Luck
Many people believe that the snake plant brings with it bad luck. Even though it is not beloved by all, it is a disadvantage that can’t be ignored. According to people’s beliefs, bad luck is associated with poverty and negative energies. So, if you are a person who believes in good luck and bad luck, the snake plant is not a good choice.
Potting Snake Plant at your Home
Let’s look at the steps for potting the snake plant at your homes:
01. Select your Snake Plant
The first step to go through is the selection of the snake plant. The one that looks the greenest with no broken leaves is the one to choose. Touch the plant and the soil and inspect everything yourself before buying it. The soil should be slightly damp but not brimming with moisture. Buy a planter that is wider than the other plant, as it will have space to spread out and grow later on.
02. Know the Apt Location
Even though snake plants are said to thrive in most weather conditions, there is an ideal temperature range and location they enjoy. If you have a spot in your house where the sunlight does not hit directly and a pleasant temperature surrounds the area, that’s your spot. This is where you can keep the snake plant to help it thrive in the best conditions to actively produce oxygen.
There are many spaces in the home where they can be used. Here’s to know:
03. Plant with Care
The process of planting should be done carefully, without harming the roots. The planter should be filled with an ideal potting mix of perlite, vermiculite, and other known potting ingredients. Fill the pot 2/3rd and carefully plant the snake plant. Add more soil to cover the sides and the remaining roots and place it in the fixed location.
There is a detailed blog on indoor plant care for you to have a look at:
04. Minimal but Proper Maintenance
As this plant is low-maintenance, taking care of it becomes simple. Once you water your plant, make sure to drain off any excess water to prevent damage to the plant. Keep in mind not to water the plant frequently, as overwatering can cause the roots to decay.
05. Extra Effort to Prevent Diseases and Pests
Being a tough plant, it can ward off disease and fungus that might attack its leaves. However, apply insecticides and repellents if you happen to notice bugs crawling on the leaves. Observe for any signs of browning or yellowing or even the leaves turning white. These are warning signs that the plant is in distress.
Despite its drawbacks, the snake plant is still a must-have addition to your plant collection. Snake Plant is a good place to start, if you are looking to buy your first plant. The benefits it offers are some that we should include in our daily lives. The disadvantages are some of which we can eliminate with care and attention to details. Now the decision is in your hand. Analyze and assess all the points, and choose the one that most agrees with you.
FAQs
01. Where do I place a snake plant? How many hours of sunlight and shade does it need daily?
The ideal place to keep a snake plant is a spot with bright but indirect sunlight that is warm but not hot. Most varieties need around 8-10 hrs of indirect sunlight.
02. How do I place a snake plant so my cat doesn’t eat it?
You can choose to relocate the pot to a better location where your cat doesn’t go. The pot can also be moved higher up or hung so that it is difficult to reach. Sprays that give the plant an unpleasant odour can also be used.Also, give your cat another chewable toy to distract them from the snake plant.
03. What are the different types of snake plants?
The variety of snake plants is vast, but here are a few examples: Mother-in-law’s Tongue, Twist, Golden Hahnii, Futura Robusta, Black Gold, etc.
04. Are all kinds of snake plants toxic to humans?
Snake plants, in general, are poisonous and toxic to both humans and pets. However, the plant’s effects on humans are less intense when compared to its reaction to a pet’s system.
Saili Sawantt – She is an Architect and Interior Designer by profession. Writing is what she treats as her passion. She has worked as an Architectural Writer, Editor, and Journalist for various design as well as digital portals, both national and international. Formerly she has also worked with Godrej Properties Limited (GPL) Design Studio, Mumbai, due to her keen interested in learning about Sustainability and Green buildings. Apart from this, she runs her blog ‘The Reader’s Express’ and is a practicing Architect & Interior Designer.
