Snake plant (sansevieria) problems are quite rare. This is one of the reasons for the popularity of indoor plants in many homes. But curled leaves are some of the problems that plague the houseplant.
Leaf curling on snake plants is an indicator of an underlying problem. It is best to investigate the cause and find techniques to fix the issues.
There is no need to be afraid. This article will show you some of the possible causes and the step-by-step process to fix curled snake plant leaves.
So why are the leaves of my snake plant curling up? Some of the possible causes include fungal infections, insect infestations, and cold temperatures. Overwatering and lack of light are also key reasons for snake plant leaves to curl.
Producers need to identify the underlying problem and find possible solutions. Growing a healthy snake plant will make your indoor space stand out from others. Let’s find out:
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Contents
Snake Plant Leaf Roll Causes and Solutions
Here are the possible causes and solutions:
very cold temperature
Freezing temperature is the primary cause of leaf curl in snake plants. The problem is quite common in winter. If you leave the houseplant outside over winter, cold damage may occur.
The houseplant will be scarred, wilt and curl. The good news is that cold weather damage can be easily repaired. But this must be done before the plant begins to rot.
The solution: Snake plants thrive in a temperature range of 50-80°F. The grower should be aware of temperature changes. Great attention should be given to these outdoor snake plants.
We recommend moving all outdoor snake pots indoors for the winter. The goal is to prevent the houseplant from suffering cold damage.
water stress
Overwatering is a common water stress that causes snake plant leaves to curl. Overwatering the plant in poorly drained soil can cause root rot from waterlogging.
If waterlogging and root rot are not corrected in time, the houseplant will most likely die. A dead snake plant is often heartbreaking for many growers.
It would be best if you think about the watering schedule and the texture of the soil. You probably understand the reason behind curled leaves.
Solutions: A regular watering schedule is the best remedy to fix curled leaves. Additionally, the grower should consider well-drained soil and drill holes in the container. Helps remove excess water and prevent flooding.
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fungal diseases
Some common fungal problems that cause snake plant leaf curl include southern blight and red leaf spot. These problems often have serious consequences for the snake plant.
You need to identify other possible signs of fungal diseases besides curling leaves. Red leaf spots lead to the formation of red lesions, dark brown, hardened leaves.
Keep in mind that it is impossible to save sansevieria from an unpleasant fungal infection. The best solution is to throw the houseplant away from others to avoid spreading the disease.
Solutions: Following a strict watering routine will help alleviate fungal diseases. Make sure the environment is conducive to leaf drying and the soil is well-drained.
Another possible method to solve the fungus problem is to transplant the plant. Make sure the container is taller with small holes in the bottom and contains well-drained soil.
Insufficient light exposure
Snake plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Placing the plant in low light areas often causes the leaves to curl.
The indoor plant needs light to be able to carry out photosynthesis. It is an essential process that helps the plant to manufacture its food which facilitates its growth and development.
Snake plant leaves cannot thrive without food. Curled leaves are one of the main signs of insufficient light exposure.
The solution: Place the pot of the indoor plant in a place with sufficient light. It is the best solution to help the snake plant in the process of photosynthesis. You can use artificial light if your home does not receive natural light. This will help meet the minimum light requirements.
You may also be interested in: How to Propagate Snake Plant?
incorrect soil pH
Sansevieria is quite sensitive to soil pH. The acidity and alkalinity of the soil determine the quality of the nutrients present. Acidic soil robs magnesium ions, which are essential for the formation of chlorophyll.
A snake plant that receives a low amount of magnesium ions will experience leaf yellowing and curling. This happens because the plant cannot perform photosynthesis due to lack of chlorophyll.
The solution: The optimal soil pH for snakes is between 5.5 and 7.5. Adding hydrated lime to acidic soil will help raise the pH to the optimum need.
On the other hand, adding lemon juice to water intended for irrigation will reduce the alkalinity of the soil. These are simple tips to consider to stop snake plant leaf curl.
parasitic infection
Some of the most common insects that infest snake plants are spider mites and scale insects. These creatures suck sap from leaves, causing them to curl up over time.
Leaf injuries do not heal, so the plant cannot store water in the succulent leaves. Leaf curling and wilting is the advanced stage of insect infestation.
The solution: Cleaning the underside of the leaves with water at room temperature can help eliminate mites. For outdoor snake plants, you can use a garden hose sprayer.
In case of scale insect infestation, we recommend spraying the plant with insecticidal soap. The soapy solution smothers the insects, killing both eggs and adults.
Improper fertilizer application.
Snake plants are not big feeders. But adding fertilizer in summer and winter helps the plant meet its nutrient needs.
Excessive fertilization usually damages roots and leaves. Leaf curling and browning are indicators of excess nutrients in the soil.
The solution: Snake plants thrive in soil rich in nitrogen nutrients. It is advisable to consider an organic fertilizer as it slowly releases nitrogenous nutrients to the plant.
Avoid over-fertilizing the plant by maintaining the required dose. This will help counteract the leaf curling behavior of snake plants.
Ultimately
Curly leaves of spider plants can be avoided by providing enough light, avoiding soggy soil, and avoiding over-fertilization. Repotting is the best solution to consider if the snake plant problem persists.
Please take the time to learn more about the Snake Plant Care Guide. The information in the manual has been tested and found to be very useful.
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