Snake plants are popular, resilient houseplants known for their striking upright leaves and ability to tolerate a range of conditions. Despite their hardiness, these adaptable plants can develop dry spots on their foliage. Understanding these symptoms is the first step toward diagnosing and addressing the underlying problems.
Identifying Dry Spots
Dry spots on snake plant leaves appear as crispy, brown patches. These discolored areas can manifest as irregular shapes, often starting at leaf tips or edges. In some cases, the entire leaf may become brittle or shriveled, indicating significant moisture loss. It is important to distinguish dry spots from other issues, such as soft, mushy areas, which signal overwatering or rot, or a general yellowing, which can point to overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or insufficient light. Observing the specific characteristics of these spots aids accurate diagnosis.
Primary Causes of Dry Spots
Underwatering
Insufficient water is a common reason for dry spots. When a snake plant does not receive enough moisture, its cells dry out and collapse, leading to crispy, brown areas. These dry patches frequently appear at the tips or edges of the leaves. Beyond visible spots, signs of underwatering include leaves that become wrinkled, shriveled, or curl inward as the plant attempts to conserve moisture. The potting mix will feel completely dry to the touch, and in severe cases, may pull away from the pot sides.
Excessive Sun Exposure
While snake plants are adaptable, prolonged exposure to direct, intense sunlight can cause sunburn. This manifests as bleached, yellow, or brown crispy patches on the foliage. The affected spots often appear on the uppermost leaves that receive the most direct light. Snake plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which allows them to photosynthesize effectively without scorching. Moving a plant accustomed to lower light directly into intense sun without gradual acclimation can quickly lead to burn marks.
Chemical Burn
Chemical exposure can also lead to dry, discolored spots on snake plant leaves. Over-fertilization, for instance, can cause an accumulation of salts in the soil, leading to root damage and subsequent leaf discoloration or crispy tips. Harsh tap water with high chlorine or minerals can result in a buildup of these substances in the leaf tissues, causing brown, crispy tips. Improper application of chemical sprays, such as pesticides or leaf shines, especially in direct sunlight, can create localized burns and dry spots on the foliage.
Resolving and Preventing Dry Spots
To address underwatering, water your snake plant thoroughly when the soil has completely dried out. Before watering, insert your finger two to three inches deep into the potting mix to confirm dryness. Adjust watering frequency based on the season, watering less often during cooler, darker winter months.
If excessive sun exposure is the cause, relocate your plant to a spot that receives bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window, or using sheer curtains to filter intense light from south or west-facing windows, can protect the foliage. When moving a plant to a brighter location, do so gradually over a week or two to allow it to acclimate.
For chemical burns, flush the soil with clean, distilled, or filtered water to leach out excess salts or minerals. Reduce fertilizer strength and frequency, fertilizing only during the active growing season in spring and summer. If tap water is a concern, let it sit out for 24 to 48 hours before use, allowing chlorine to dissipate.
Maintaining Overall Snake Plant Health
Beyond addressing specific issues, promoting overall plant vigor helps prevent problems, including dry spots. Use a loose, well-draining potting mix, such as a succulent or cactus blend, or a standard potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root issues. Terracotta pots are beneficial as their porous material helps wick away excess moisture from the soil. Maintaining stable room temperatures, between 60°F and 90°F, and protecting the plant from cold drafts below 50°F, also contributes to its resilience.