What to Do With a Snake Plant in May to Encourage More Statement Foliage
Snake plants don't ask for much, but they will need a little more attention to help them thrive in the months ahead
They might look unique, but snake plants are one of the easiest houseplants to care for – although they require a little more upkeep at this time of year. By May, your snake plant has entered its active growth phase, so you'll want to move it to a bright spot, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, and water it sufficiently during warm spells.
Snake plants are enduringly popular among houseplant enthusiasts and beginner gardeners alike; they really do make a magnificent addition to your collection without asking for too much in return. (You can pick up a set of two live snake plants from Walmart.)
1. Perfect Your Watering Schedule
Now is the time when many gardeners are picking up their watering cans and giving their plants a drink as temperatures rise – but snake plants require a carefully balanced watering schedule.
'As your snake plant shows signs of new growth in May, it can be tempting to drastically increase watering – but keep in mind that these houseplants are actually succulents and they store water in their fleshy stems,' says Tenielle.
With this in mind, watering your snake plant isn't a daily task; you'll only need to water it once the soil dries out.
'Snake plants can be left to dry out entirely between watering,' confirms Tenielle. 'However, warmer temperatures and active growth mean that the soil will dry out much more quickly than when your snake plant was dormant in winter, so you may need to tend to it more frequently than you're used to.'
The best plan of action? Use a soil moisture meter, like this one from Walmart.
'It's best to check a couple of times a week during particularly warm spells,' Tenielle advises.
Tenielle is a Gardens Content Editor at Homes & Gardens with over six years of journalistic experience, including previously having the role of Gardens News Writer. She holds qualifications in BA Journalism, Media and English Literature and MA Magazine Journalism. Before coming to Homes & Gardens, Tenielle was in the editorial department at the Royal Horticultural Society and worked on The Garden magazine. As our in-house houseplant expert, Tenielle writes on a range of solutions to houseplant problems, as well as other 'how to' guides, inspiring garden projects, and the latest gardening news.
2. Prioritize Sunlight
During its active growth period, your snake plant will need all the support it can get – so if you haven't already, you'll want to move it to a sunny spot to help it photosynthesize.
'Snake plants aren’t fast growers, but you can take advantage of the sunlight and warmer temperatures in spring to encourage more foliage,' says Tenielle. 'Move your snake plant to a brighter position – though it shouldn’t be in direct sun, as this can cause common snake plant problems like leaf scorch.'
3. Don't Forget to Clean the Leaves
In the spirit of spring cleaning, now is the perfect time to tend to the leaves of your snake plant. Careful cleaning will prevent bug infestations and ensure your plant remains healthy through spring and into summer, when you should see more foliage appear.
'I always clean my houseplants in spring,' says Tenielle. 'It sounds a little strange at first, but take a closer look at your snake plant and you might find a layer of dust on its large sword-shaped leaves.'
Removing dust and dirt is key to encouraging healthy growth; you can use microfiber cloths (like this set from Amazon) or houseplant dusting gloves (like these from Walmart). You can even invest in a leaf-cleaning brush, which you can also pick up at Amazon.
'It’s important to clean your snake plant and remove debris so its pores don’t become blocked, which inhibits essential plant processes like photosynthesis,' says Tenielle. 'Cleaning also prevents the risk of bug infestations, as pests become more active in spring.'
4. Repot if Necessary
As low-maintenance indoor plants, snake plants don't need to be repotted often, but they will need a helping hand if their growth becomes restricted.
'Although snake plants like to be slightly pot-bound, overcrowded roots can eventually cause foliage to discolor and temporarily stunt growth,' explains Tenielle. 'Roots sticking out of drainage holes is another sign your plant needs repotting.'
After performing a quick check on your plant's roots and soil, you might need to transfer it to a larger container.
'May is an excellent time to rehome your snake plant,' says Tenielle. 'I recommend using a succulent potting mix when repotting your snake plant, as this will be well-draining and packed with the nutrients it needs.'
If you need to stock up, you can make your own succulent potting mix, or pick up succulent and cactus soil from Perfect Plants Nursery.
5. Start to Fertilize
Snake plants shouldn't be fertilized all year round, but May is a brilliant time to start feeding them; in fact, it's a crucial way to support their growth.
'I recommend starting to apply a balanced liquid fertilizer in spring,' says Tenielle. 'Take care not to over-fertilize, as this can cause stress and discolor the foliage, but you can apply once a month to give your snake plant a boost of essential plant nutrients. '
Try something like this all-purpose indoor plant food from Amazon and dilute it to half-strength before applying.
What to Shop
These bypass pruning shears are ideal for essential pruning tasks. They cut up to 1" in diameter.
These blue ceramic houseplant planters have drainage holes and saucers to remove excess water and aid moisture management.
This duo has everything you need to keep houseplants hydrated. The watering can has a detachable nozzle for more accurate watering.
In need of more advice? Check out our guide to pruning a snake plant, and read up on what to do if your snake plant is drooping.
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