What care mistake kills Sansevieria: expert advice

Sansevieria, also known as "mother-in-law's tongue," is one of the most popular indoor plants due to its ease of care and spectacular appearance. It can not only decorate the interior but also purify the air and increase humidity.

However, despite its resilience, sansevieria has certain requirements that must be taken into account to keep it healthy and beautiful. It is important to avoid several common care mistakes that can lead to problems with this plant.

How to care for Sansevieria

The flowering of this plant is quite rare, and certain conditions need to be created for it to bloom. Most often, this happens only in plants older than two years. To stimulate flowering, the plant can be stressed, for example, by allowing it to dry out or by planting it in a cramped pot. During flowering, a long stem appears, which can reach a meter in height, covered with small buds, which eventually bloom into delicate feathery flowers with a pleasant aroma.

Sansevieria is known for its hardiness. It does not require any special care and can withstand both extremely high temperatures and low temperatures down to 12°C. This plant can survive without water for a long time and also feels great even in low light conditions. It easily adapts to different environmental conditions, making it ideal for beginners in indoor gardening.

The ideal soil for Sansevieria

Heavy and fertile soil is best for the healthy growth of Sansevieria. It is optimal to add compost, clay, or sand to improve drainage, as stagnant water can lead to root rot. The plant does not need frequent fertilization, and excessive use of fertilizers can cause lethargy and weakening of the leaves. You should also avoid spraying the leaves as this can lead to spots.

What Sansevieria likes

Despite its unpretentiousness, sansevieria can suffer from some common mistakes. One of the biggest problems is improper watering. The plant can tolerate both excessive drying out and waterlogging of the soil, but this can affect its health. Leaving water in the sump is a direct threat to the roots, which can lead to rotting. The key is to ensure good drainage.

Although Sansevieria is quite resistant to pests, it can still be attacked by some insects. The mealybug is especially dangerous for the plant, which can damage its leaves. In addition, aphids and spider mites can also attack the plant. It is important to regularly check the leaves for pests and apply appropriate control agents if necessary.

One of the most common mistakes is over-fertilizing sansevieria. It does not need frequent fertilization, and excess fertilizer can worsen the condition of the plant. The foliage can become soft and lose its rigidity, which not only reduces the decorative effect of the plant but also affects its general condition.

The main advice from experts is not to over-protect the plant. Sansevieria does not need frequent watering or fertilizing. It is important to provide it with comfortable conditions for growth, monitor the condition of the soil and drainage, and keep the plant in a place with good lighting, but without direct sunlight to avoid overheating or burning of the leaves.

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