Key Points
Water snake plants sparingly in winter—about once a month when the soil is dry.Provide at least eight hours of indirect light and limit direct sun to one or two hours.Avoid pruning or fertilizing, keep temps above 50°F, and use a humidifier for healthy growth.
Just like outdoor plants, houseplants tend to go dormant or semi-dormant in the winter. Snake plants are no exception, and tend to take advantage of this time of year when light is a bit more scarce to conserve their energy and rest.
This means snake plants have different needs in the fall and winter than in the spring and summer. Here’s how to adjust their care accordingly.
Water It Less
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The Spruce / Cori Sears
Snake plants absorb less water in the winter because they aren’t expending as much energy on new growth.
This means they are extra prone to overwatering this time of year, so you’ll need to adjust your watering schedule and amount accordingly.
Wait until the soil is completely dry to re-water, which could be only once a month.
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Keep It Away From Extreme Temperatures
Snake plants do not tolerate temperatures below 50°F very well. This means if you keep your snake plant outside or near a drafty window or door, it’s best to relocate it to a warmer area come winter.
However, this doesn’t mean putting your snake plant directly near a vent or radiator is a good idea either. The hot, dry air may damage its tender leaves.
Run a Humidifier Nearby
Speaking of dry air, your home’s air is probably drier in general during fall and winter. Infusing more moisture in the air with a humidifier is beneficial for all your houseplants, snake plants included.
Alternatively, you can opt to put your snake plant next to your shower if the lighting is right in your bathroom.
Don’t Fertilize or Prune
Fertilizing and pruning are two care activities that you should reserve for when your snake plant is actively growing.
Fertilizing your snake plant in the winter can cause fertilizer burn and root damage since the plant is less likely to absorb it in dormancy. Pruning is more beneficial in the spring, since it encourages new growth.
Address Fungus Issues
Snake plants are prone to fungal issues, but especially in the winter as the temperatures drop. If you notice any fungus, like powdery mildew, present, remove any affected leaves to stop the spread and increase the airflow around your snake plant by running a fan nearby.
Treat Pests With Sticky Traps
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Devon Nodolski / Getty Images
An extra warm house in the winter is an extra hospitable place for pests like fungus gnats, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests tend to lay eggs in the soil of house plants like snake plants.
Make a plan to repot your snake plant with fresh soil in the spring, but insert some sticky traps to capture the mature pests.
Adjust Its Lighting Conditions (If Needed)
Snake plants can tolerate low light conditions, but they do need at least 8 hours of indirect sunlight per day in the winter.
Move your snake plant to a brighter location as needed to ensure it’s ready to grow again come spring.
However, too much direct light is also harmful to a snake plant. Make sure it receives less than one to two hours of direct light in the winter.
What to Do If Your Snake Plant Blooms in Winter
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kilav/Getty Images
If your snake plant begins blooming in the winter, it could be a sign that it’s undergoing some stress from less-than-ideal conditions.
You might need to water your plant slightly more often, and repot it in the spring if it’s root-bound.
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