Mother-in-law Tongues, or snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata), have been described as “easy to grow, and, in many cases, indestructible” (https://www.thespruce.com/snake-plant-care-overview-1902772). These plants, formerly known as Sansevieria trifasciata but recently renamed (Ibid.) are a good choice for beginning growers. If you kill your Mother-in-law’s tongue you’ve apparently made an accomplishment!
But maybe that’s an overstatement. These plants still respond to the environment they are placed in. These natives of West Africa can tolerate low levels of light, but the low light levels will be reflected in slow growth. For optimal health and growth, place your plant year a window, where it receives plenty of indirect light and even a few direct rays.
Water and fertilize your plant with care. It is very important that the soil around your plant dry out partially between waterings as a defense against root rot. And as an added precaution against rot, only water the soil surface when you do water. In other words, ensure that you do not pour water into the plant’s crown. Monthly fertilization with a balanced fertilizer–only during the spring and summer–will help your Mother-in-Law to grow more quickly. Dilute fertilizer to 1/2 strength.
Maybe you’ve never hear of Mother-in-law Tongues before. Maybe you’ve grown them for years and would like another. Maybe you’ve killed one of these “indestructible” plants (Ibid.) and want to give it another go! Whatever the case, we hope that these tips will make your new venture a success.
Sources
Dracaena trifasciata (2021). Retrieved 8/9/21 from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dracaena_trifasciata
Espiritu, K. (2019). Snake Plant Care — Growing The “Mother In Law’s Tongue.” Retrieved 8/9/21 from https://www.epicgardening.com/snake-plant-mother-in-laws-tongue/
Mother in Law’s Tongue Care Instructions (n.d.). Retrieved 8/9/21 from https://plantify.co.za/pages/mother-in-laws-tongue-care-instructions
VanZile, J. (2021). How to Grow and Care for Snake Plant. Retrieved 8/9/21 from https://www.thespruce.com/snake-plant-care-overview-1902772