Love Snake Plants so much that you can’t wait for them to grow? Here’s a salt trick that will boost their growth rate!
Snake plants are adored worldwide for their striking form, tough nature, and air-purifying qualities. They’re almost indestructible, but when it comes to growth, they take their sweet time. If patience isn’t your strongest suit, don’t worry—I’ve got a simple salt hack that helps them grow faster.
Salt Trick That Makes Snake Plants Grow Faster
If you thought that the regular salt you sprinkle on your food would help you get the desired results, you were going to be “salty!” The secret is not in regular table salt but in Epsom salt! Scientifically known as magnesium sulfate, this mineral compound is not actually a salt, but it does wonders for snake plants if used as a fertilizer.
Why does Epsom Salt Work?
Snake plants are succulents commonly grown indoors, and as with most houseplants, their potting mix often lacks the micronutrients responsible for improving the density, color, and speed of growth.
But when Epsom salt is added, it breaks down to release magnesium and sulfur into the soil. This is eventually absorbed by your snake plant and used to boost its growth pace. Why does it do so? That’s because magnesium enhances chlorophyll production, which in turn increases the energy produced.
This energy is channeled into growing the size of the plant. Sulphur, too, has its benefits. It helps in protein synthesis, which makes the plant stronger and resistant to diseases.
Quick Note: Always use Epsom salt during the growing months (spring and summer). In winter, snake plants naturally slow down, and extra feeding will only stress them out.
How to Use Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt is versatile when it comes to its usage. There are three main ways to incorporate it into your planting routine.
1. Mixing it with Liquid for Watering
- For this, take 1 tsp of Epsom salt and dissolve it in 1 litre of water, and voila, you’ve made your fertilizing concoction.
- Replace your regular water for irrigating your snake plant with this mixture once every 4-6 weeks.
- Since it is a mild solution, it will not cause root burns or drastically change the chemical composition of the soil.
Note: When watering, aim to water the soil directly, minimizing splashes on the leaves to prevent residue buildup.
2. Adding to your Misting Technique
- This technique is simple, effective, and will also make your plant look visually appealing almost instantly.
- All you have to do is dissolve the same amount of Epsom salt in 1 litre of water, but instead of watering directly, you should mist your plant.
- Use a spray bottle for an even coating, applying it just once a month.
Note: Wipe the plant before and after misting it to remove any residue that may clog the stomata of the plant.
3. Directly into the Potting Mix
- This is the most common and orthodox method of using Epsom salt. Unlike the other two methods, you will not need water here.
- Mix 1 tbsp of Epsom salt with 1 gallon of a succulent-friendly potting mix. Blend it thoroughly and use it to grow your snake plant.
Pro Tip: This is especially useful for repotting, as the nutrients in old soil get depleted through continuous absorption.
Key Points to Remember
- Use Epsom salt like any other fertilizer—less is more. Too much can backfire.
- Test your soil first. If magnesium and sulphur levels are already fine, skip the extra dose.
- Be patient. Snake plants naturally slow down in winter, and forcing growth can do more harm than good.
- Safety Tip—Epsom salt is safe in small amounts, but keep it away from pets and kids. Ingesting it isn’t a good idea, and overdoing it in soil can hurt the plant.
Now that you know the secret salt trick for fast-growing and healthy snake plants, which other plants do you want to boost? Tell us in the comment section!
