Sansevieria Care
Sansevieria Care in Phoenix: The Ultimate Snake Plant Family Guide
Sansevierias—commonly known as Snake Plants or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue—are some of the easiest and most resilient houseplants around. Their striking upright leaves and ability to thrive on neglect make them perfect for Phoenix homes and businesses.
This care guide applies to all Sansevieria varieties, including Laurentii, Cylindrica, Moonshine, Black Coral, and Whale Fin.
Light
Sansevierias adapt to a wide range of light conditions, from bright indirect light to low light environments. In Phoenix, bright reflective light is ideal. They can handle some morning or late afternoon sun but should be protected from harsh midday rays, which can bleach or scorch the leaves.
If grown indoors, a bright room near a window with filtered sunlight is perfect.
Watering
Snake Plants are drought-tolerant, but in Phoenix’s dry air, they can handle a bit more frequent watering than many people think—especially in small nursery pots.
Watering schedule:
Spring & Summer: Every 10–14 days for most established plants; every 7–10 days for smaller nursery pots that dry quickly.
Fall & Winter: Every 3–4 weeks, depending on indoor temperatures and light.
Each time you water, soak the soil thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then empty saucers. Overwatering happens when you water too often, not from giving too much water at once.
Leaves that feel soft, wrinkled, or folding inward indicate it’s time for a drink; yellow, mushy leaves mean too much water.
Soil & Repotting
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. You can also mix your own using potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand.
Repot every 2–3 years or when the roots begin to push against the pot. Sansevierias prefer being slightly root-bound, so don’t size up too quickly.
At Maricopa Botanicals, we offer repotting services and can match your Snake Plant with one of our handmade concrete pots for improved airflow and drainage.
Temperature & Humidity
Sansevierias thrive in temperatures between 65–90°F and are well-suited to Phoenix homes. They tolerate low humidity easily but should be kept away from cold drafts or AC vents during the winter.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly once a month during spring and summer using our Maricopa Botanicals house-made fertilizer to support steady, healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Dust can build up quickly on Sansevieria leaves in Phoenix’s dry air. Wipe them with our house-made leaf cleaner to restore shine and improve photosynthesis. Clean leaves also help prevent spider mites and mealybugs.
Propagation
Sansevierias are easy to propagate through leaf cuttings or division.
Cut a healthy leaf into 3–4 inch sections.
Let the cuttings callus over for a few days.
Root them in soil or water.
For a faster, cleaner result, you can also bring your plant to Maricopa Botanicals, and we’ll help propagate or divide your Snake Plant safely.
Common Issues
Mushy or yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Wrinkled leaves: Underwatering.
Brown edges: Too much direct sun or lack of humidity.
No new growth: Not enough light or root-bound (time to repot).
Final Thoughts
Sansevierias are virtually indestructible, making them one of the best houseplants for Phoenix’s climate. With bright, indirect light, deep but infrequent watering, and well-draining soil, they’ll reward you with sculptural leaves and steady growth year-round.
Visit Maricopa Botanicals for repotting, propagation, and all-natural plant care products—including fertilizer and leaf cleaner—crafted to help your Snake Plants thrive in the desert.
