The snake plant is a popular houseplant known for its tough, drought-resistant nature and air-purifying properties. While snake plants are typically grown indoors, they can thrive outside in the right conditions.
Many people ask whether snake plants can live outside. The answer is yes and no. It all depends on the climate you live in and whether or not you provide enough protection for your snake plant. If you live in an area with a hot climate, keeping your snake plant inside is best.
However, if you live in an area with a moderate climate, you can put your snake plant outside. Just make sure you provide some protection from the sun and wind.
Habitat and Natural Range of Snake Plants
Snake plants are native to Africa, specifically the tropical regions of the continent. They can be found in countries like Senegal, Ghana, Uganda, and Kenya. In these habitats, they usually grow in sandy or rocky soils near rivers and streams.
Snake plants are not particular about their growing conditions and can adapt to various environments. However, they prefer warm climates and need bright light to survive. They will also be tolerant of occasional periods of drought.
Factors Affecting the Suitability of Outdoor Conditions for Snake Plants
- When determining whether snake plants are suitable to live outside, there are a few key factors to consider.
- Tolerance to cold temperatures: Snake plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions, so they are not typically frost-resistant. However, some varieties can withstand brief periods of cooler weather.
- Amount of sunlight: Snake plants do best in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions. If the plant is placed in too much direct sunlight, the leaves may start to scorch or fade in colour.
- Moisture levels: Snake plants are relatively drought-tolerant, so they don’t need a lot of water to survive. However, the soil should remain moist during the hotter summer months. If the plant is allowed to dry out completely, it may start to wilt and die.
- Sunlight: Snake plants can tolerate a wide range of light levels, from bright indirect sunlight to low indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, so keeping the plant in a shady spot is best.
- Soil: Snake plants prefer soil that is well-draining and slightly acidic. If the soil is too dense or too wet, it can cause root rot and kill the plant.
- Humidity: Snake plants prefer low humidity, as too much moisture can cause root rot.
- Watering: Snake plants should be watered regularly, but you should be careful not to overwater them. Too much water can cause root rot and eventually kill the plant.
- Fertilizer: Snake plants should be fertilized occasionally with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can burn the leaves and roots, so it’s important to follow the instructions on the product.
- Pests: Snake plants are susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Treating the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help to keep these pests at bay.
Considering these factors, you can determine whether snake plants are suitable to grow outdoors in your particular climate and environment.
What Are the Benefits of Snake Plants?
- There are many benefits of snake plants, including that they are easy to care for, help purify the air, and tolerate low light conditions. Snake plants are also very effective at absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making them great for use in bedrooms or offices.
- Low maintenance: Snake plants are easy to care for and require minimal attention, making them a great choice for busy people or those new to caring for plants.
- Long life: Snake plants are known for longevity and can often last for decades with proper care.
- Air purification: Snake plants help to purify the air by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
- Versatile: Snake plants look great in many different environments and can be used as a floor, tabletop, or part of a terrarium or container garden.
- Easy to propagate: Snake plants easily propagate by cutting off leaves and replanting them in soil.
- Disease resistant: Snake plants generally resist the most common plant diseases.
- Slow growing: Snake plants grow slowly, so you don’t have to worry about them taking over your home.
- Low light: Snake plants can tolerate low light conditions and thrive without direct sunlight, making them perfect for dark corners.
- Aesthetic appeal: Snake plants have a unique look, and their sleek green leaves make them a great addition to any home.
Where Can I Put My Snake Plant?
If you live in an area that doesn’t freeze, your snake plant can go almost anywhere outdoors. It will even do well in full sun, although it’s best to give it some afternoon shade in hot climates. Snake plants also make great houseplants and will tolerate just about any indoor conditions
How Do I Take Care of a Snake Plant?
To take care of a Snake Plant, water it when the soil is dry and fertilize it once a month. Place the plant in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
If you notice the leaves turning yellow, this is most likely due to overwatering – be sure to let the soil dry out completely between watering.
Conclusion
Snake plants are hardy, drought-resistant plants that can be grown outdoors in the right conditions. Snake plants can live outside, but they need to be acclimated slowly to the new environment.
They prefer filtered sunlight or partial shade and well-draining, slightly acidic soil. While they are typically found in arid, desert environments, they can adapt to various outdoor conditions as long as they are protected from frost and extreme temperatures.
To successfully grow snake plants outdoors, it is important to provide them with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight and to protect them from excessive moisture and extreme temperatures. With proper care and attention, snake plants can make a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to any outdoor garden.
