25 - 35cm Sansevieria Trifasciata Grey Stripe Snake Plant 12cm Pot House Plant

Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Grey Stripe,’ also known as Snake Plant ‘Grey Stripe,’ is a hardy, low-maintenance houseplant known for its upright sword-like leaves with a mix of green and silvery-grey horizontal striping. It is an excellent air purifier and thrives in various conditions, making it an ideal plant for beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts alike. Below is a detailed guide to keeping your Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Grey Stripe’ healthy and thriving.

Light Requirements

• Bright Indirect to Low Light:
  Sansevieria 'Grey Stripe' is highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of lighting conditions. It performs best in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate lower light levels, making it ideal for indoor spaces with minimal natural light.

• Direct Sunlight:
  While it can handle some direct sunlight, prolonged exposure to intense sun can cause leaf scorching. If placing near a bright window, ensure it receives filtered sunlight to prevent damage.

• Low Light Adaptability:
  This plant can survive in dimly lit rooms, but growth will be slower, and the variegation may become less pronounced. If growing in a low-light area, occasionally move it to a brighter spot to encourage healthier foliage.

Temperature and Humidity

• Ideal Temperature Range:
  Sansevieria thrives in temperatures between 15–29°C (60–85°F). It can tolerate occasional dips below this range but is sensitive to frost. If temperatures fall below 10°C (50°F), growth may slow, and prolonged cold exposure can cause damage.

• Humidity Requirements:
  Snake plants are highly tolerant of varying humidity levels. They do well in standard household humidity (40–60%) and do not require additional humidity. However, avoid excessive moisture in the air, as overly damp conditions can encourage rot and fungal growth.

• Cold Drafts:
  Keep the plant away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heaters, as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.

Watering

• Water Sparingly:
  Sansevieria is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out completely between waterings. Water every 2–3 weeks in warm months and once a month in colder months. The frequency depends on light levels, humidity, and temperature.

• How to Water:

  • Water deeply until moisture drains from the bottom of the pot.
  • Allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.
  • Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent standing water, which can cause root rot.

• Overwatering Risks:
  The most common cause of Sansevieria problems is overwatering. Signs of overwatering include yellowing, mushy leaves, and root rot. If the leaves feel soft or appear to collapse, reduce watering immediately.

• Underwatering Signs:
  Though highly drought-tolerant, extreme underwatering may cause wrinkling or curling leaves. If this occurs, resume a more consistent watering schedule.

Soil and Potting

• Well-Draining Soil:
  Use a fast-draining, gritty soil mix to prevent excess moisture retention. A cactus or succulent mix works well, or you can create your own by combining:

  • 50% potting soil
  • 30% perlite or pumice
  • 20% sand or orchid bark

• Choosing a Pot:

  • Use a terra cotta or unglazed ceramic pot with drainage holes to help wick away excess moisture.
  • Avoid plastic pots, as they retain more moisture, increasing the risk of rot.

• Repotting:

  • Sansevieria is slow-growing and only needs repotting every 2–3 years or when the roots outgrow the pot.
  • Repot in spring or summer using a slightly larger container.

Fertilising

• Minimal Fertiliser Needs:
  Sansevieria ‘Grey Stripe’ requires very little feeding. Use a balanced liquid fertiliser (e.g., 10-10-10) at half strength every 2–3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).

• Avoid Over-Fertilising:
  Over-fertilisation can lead to weakened, leggy growth and salt build-up in the soil. In autumn and winter, fertilising is not necessary, as the plant enters a slower growth phase.

Growth and Maintenance

• Growth Habit:
  Sansevieria 'Grey Stripe' grows in an upright, rosette-like pattern, reaching heights of 45–75 cm (18–30 inches). It spreads slowly via underground rhizomes.

• Leaf Cleaning:
  Dust accumulation can block light absorption, slowing photosynthesis. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them clean.

• Pruning:
  Trim any damaged or yellowing leaves at the base using sterilised scissors. Pruning also helps maintain the plant’s shape and remove older growth.

Pests and Diseases

• Common Pests:
  Sansevieria is relatively pest-resistant, but it can occasionally attract:

  • Spider mites – Look for fine webbing and dry, stippled leaves.
  • Mealybugs – These appear as white, cotton-like masses on leaves.
  • Scale insects – Hard, brownish bumps on stems or leaves.

  Treatment: Wipe the affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Diseases:
  The primary concern is root rot, caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include mushy roots, yellow leaves, and a foul smell. If detected early, remove the plant from the soil, trim away affected roots, and repot in fresh dry soil.

Propagation

Sansevieria is easily propagated through leaf cuttings, division, or rhizome separation.

1. Division (Best Method)

• When repotting, gently separate rhizomes (underground stems) with at least one set of leaves attached.
• Replant each section in a new pot with fresh soil.

2. Leaf Cuttings (Slower Method)

• Cut a healthy leaf into 7–10 cm (3–4 inch) sections.
• Let the cuttings dry for 1–2 days to form calluses.
• Plant them vertically in slightly moist soil.
• Roots will develop in 4–6 weeks.

Toxicity

• Mildly Toxic to Pets & Humans:
  Sansevieria contains saponins, which can cause mild nausea, vomiting, and irritation if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.

Additional Care Tips

• Rotating the Plant:
  Rotate the plant every few weeks to promote even growth, as it will naturally lean towards the light source.

• Drought-Tolerant Nature:
  If unsure when to water, it is always safer to underwater rather than overwater. Sansevieria can survive weeks without water, but overwatering can quickly kill it.

• Dormancy:
  Growth slows in autumn and winter. Reduce watering and avoid fertilising during this time. Resume regular care in spring.