Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) stores water in its thick upright leaves and tolerates infrequent watering far better than overwatering. Water snake plant only when the top two inches of soil have dried completely, which is often every two to three weeks in summer. In winter, snake plant needs water much less often, roughly once every four to six weeks. Always empty the saucer after watering snake plant, because standing water rots its rhizomes. If the leaves of a snake plant turn soft, mushy, or yellow at the base, the most common cause is too much water.
Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) adapts to a wide range of light, from bright indirect sun to fairly dim corners. The strongest growth and the boldest leaf banding on a snake plant appear in bright, indirect light. A snake plant kept in deep shade survives but grows slowly and produces thinner leaves. Protect snake plant from prolonged direct midday sun through glass, which can scorch and bleach the leaves. Rotating the snake plant a quarter turn every few weeks keeps its upright leaves growing evenly.
The cited reference lists snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) as toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. The compounds responsible in snake plant are saponins, which irritate the mouth and digestive tract of pets. Keep snake plant out of reach of cats and dogs, and place it where a curious pet cannot chew the leaves. If a cat or dog has eaten any part of a snake plant, contact a veterinarian or an animal poison-control line. The cited reference describes the snake plant reaction as generally mild to moderate, but a professional should still evaluate the animal.
Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) needs a fast-draining mix, such as a cactus and succulent soil blended with extra perlite or coarse sand. Plant snake plant in a pot with drainage holes, because the rhizomes are prone to rot in waterlogged soil. A snake plant prefers to be slightly root-bound and only needs repotting every three to four years. Repot snake plant in spring, moving it to a container only one size larger. Terracotta pots suit snake plant well because the porous clay wicks away excess moisture.
The most frequent problem with snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) is root rot caused by overwatering, which shows as soft, yellowing, or collapsing leaves. Brown, crispy leaf tips on a snake plant often follow underwatering or a buildup of mineral salts from tap water. Wrinkled or curling leaves signal that the snake plant is too dry and needs a thorough watering. Cold drafts below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can leave pale scarred patches on snake plant leaves. If a snake plant is not growing, move it to brighter indirect light and resume regular feeding during the growing season.