The Natural Boost Snake Plants Need To Grow Big And Tall

Snake plants are beloved and easy to care for and can add a pop of color to almost any space. Even Joanna Gaines loves these classic houseplants. If you've ever grown a snake plant, you likely know that they are a tolerant species and even survive years of neglect. Just because a snake plant is alive, though, doesn't necessarily mean that it's thriving. Providing it with just a bit more light can quickly cause the neglected plant to flourish and grow. 

While snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata) are known for being able to grow without a ton of natural light, one of the easiest things you can do to help your snake plant truly reach its full potential is to just provide it with the appropriate amount of direct light while indoors. A north-facing window could be an ideal spot for your snake plant. The key, however, is balance. Too much direct sunlight can easily cause its leaves to burn, especially in a window. About 2 to 6 hours is the sweet spot, but pay attention. If you see any signs of scorching, move your plant to a less intense spot. If you don't have the perfect spot, aim for lots of bright, indirect light instead.

Snake plants are native to western Africa, and while they are only hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 through 12, they are commonly grown as houseplants in a variety of regions. If your snake plant spends all its time outdoors, or even just spends summers outside, it's important to ensure it receives bright but indirect light. Direct light outdoors may be too strong, especially in the summer.  This may mean putting its container on the northern side of your home, or even locating it under a tree where the leaves can make sure that the snake plant receives only dappled sun. 

If you do opt to move your snake plant outside during the summer months, make sure to slowly harden it off. You should do the same when bringing the plant in for overwintering indoors. This should help prevent the plant from becoming too stressed by the differences in temperature and light levels.

Another thing to keep in mind is to ensure that your snake plant doesn't get too cold. Snake plants don't tolerate temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit very well, so making sure it isn't exposed to any chilly drafts should help to keep it healthy all winter. Once it's in the right spot, you can just leave it alone to do its thing.