Are you wondering why your Snake plant’s tips are dry and crispy? This guide will provide all the details and tell you how to fix it!
Is your tall and upright succulent looking a little troubled around the edges? You see, sometimes the most resilient and hardy plants like the Snake plants can get in trouble too! Learn why it happens and how to fix these issues here, and bring back the lush green upright leaves to life!
Why Your Snake Plant’s Tips Are Dry and Crispy?
1. Inconsistent Watering (Too Much or Too Little)
This is exactly what many gardeners fail to master — watering issues! The thing is simple, snake plants are succulents and are drought-tolerant like all their desert cousins. So, frequent or regular watering is never required, rather they love to be on the drier side. However, not too dry that the tips become curled and turn brown!
The best way is to let the soil dry out properly between waterings. Dig your finger for about an inch or two into the soil, and if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
2. Low Humidity Levels
During the winter, the humidity levels drop below the level that Snake plants require. This kind of situation also causes browning around the edges of snake plants. But there is nothing to worry about because you can simply place some tropical plants around it to improve the humidity around the plant.
Low humidity levels lead to evaporation from leaf tips faster than the plant’s natural speed, ultimately resulting in dryness and brown tips. Try this hack—put a small tray with pebbles and water near the plant. As the water evaporates, it will slightly increase the humidity around the plant.
3. Too Much Direct Sunlight
Why would you want to scorch the beautiful green leaves by keeping them under the sun for long hours? Even though snake plants are resilient enough the direct sun’s rays aren’t good for any houseplant! Rather indirect sunlight, filtered bright light from the window, or LED grow lights are the best options.
If you have kept your Mother-in-Law’s Tongue in direct sun, especially during the afternoon when the sun is scorching hot, the plant will start losing moisture faster, which results in dry and crispy leaves.
Consider moving your plant to a location with filtered sunlight, such as a north or east-facing window where it can absorb the morning rays. Again, sheer curtains too can help diffuse the sunlight and prevent leaf damage.
4. Mineral Buildup From Tap Water
Urban water supplies contain chemicals like fluoride and chlorine that are harmful to plants. Over time, these chemicals can accumulate in the soil and lead to damage. Additionally, these chemicals, alongside excess salts, hinder the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients. If you see a white crust forming on the soil’s surface, it’s a sign of mineral buildup.
To avoid this issue, use filtered, distilled, or rainwater instead of regular tap water. If you choose tap water, let it sit overnight before using it to water your plant. This will allow some of the chlorine and fluoride to evaporate. Also, using distilled water every few months can help remove any excess minerals.
5. Over-Fertilization
Using fertilizers very often, and that too a strong one, can do more harm than good to your plant. In fact, excess use can lead to salt buildup in the soil which can burn the roots and result in dry and brown leaves.
Since snake plants are slow-growing, they don’t really need much feeding. So, feed once every two or three months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during fall or winter as the growth is naturally slow.
6. Physical Damage From Handling or Placement
These plants are known to be tough but their leaves can still get damaged by rough handling or frequent contact with furniture, pets, or people. If the leaves are constantly bumped into or even brushed against, they can get bruises and turn brown eventually.
Place your plant in a location where it won’t be disturbed often. Be gentle while moving and handling it.
Can You Trim the Dry Tips?
Yes, the tips can be trimmed. Dry, crispy edges can be removed to improve the plant’s appearance, but remember that the damaged parts won’t heal or turn green again. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut just a little above the damaged area, following the shape of the leaf.
Dry and Crispy leaves are a common issue, but with proper care, you can prevent further damage and help restore your plant’s health. Maintain a proper watering schedule, avoid chemical buildup, and ensure the right light and humidity levels.
Minute changes in care can make big differences, so be patient and see the improvements. With a little attention, your plant will flourish. Let us know if these tips worked out for you in the comments section below.
