The Best Spots to Place Your Snake Plant for Maximum Growth

January 21, 2025

Ah, the beloved snake plant – the indoor greenery that even self-proclaimed “black thumbs” can keep alive! Whether you’ve just brought one home for the very first time or you’re adding to your growing collection, finding the ideal spot for your new leafy friend is the secret sauce to successful growth. Trust me, where you place it makes all the difference. So, grab a cuppa, and let’s talk snake plant placement.

Let’s Talk Lighting: The Goldilocks Zone

When it comes to light, snake plants are all about balance. They’re like that friend who’s happy with whatever but secretly thrives in just the right conditions. Sure, they’ll survive tucked away in that dark corner of the living room, but if you want to see them really strut their stuff, medium to bright, indirect light is your jam. Think near a window but not right in the sun’s blazing spotlight.

Take, for instance, my mate Kylie. She popped her snake plant in her east-facing bedroom, where it soaks up a couple of hours of gentle morning sun. The result? A lush, upright beauty that looks like it should be modelling for a plant magazine. West and south-facing windows work too, as long as there’s some sheer curtain action to soften the intensity.

Beware the Window Sauna

Now, as much as your snake plant might appreciate light, don’t park it right in a sunny windowsill, especially one that cooks hotter than your BBQ on Australia Day. The direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, leaving them looking sad and crispy – not the vibe we’re going for! Aim for that “I’m close to the light but not directly in it” sweet spot.

The No-Go Zones

Drafty Areas: Avoid spots near air-conditioners, heaters, or windows/doors that are often open, as cool drafts or hot bursts can stress your plant out.
Total Darkness: While snake plants are forgiving, they’re no magicians. Absolute dark zones are off the cards if you want more than just survival.
Water-Scare Zones: Don’t place your plant where you’ll forget about it entirely – like that shelf above the pantry. Out of sight, out of mind, right?

Best Places Around the House

Still wondering where your snake plant will feel most at home? Let’s break it down:

1. Your Living Room

Ah, the living room, the heart of the home! Place your snake plant near a well-lit corner or just a few feet from a big window. Bonus points if it’s on a sleek decorative stand that lets it steal the show.

2. Your Bedroom

Aside from being a champ at purifying air, snake plants look fabulous in bedrooms. An east-facing bedroom window, just like Kylie’s, is a winning spot. You’ll wake up to green goodness every morning without having to fuss over it.

3. Your Bathroom

If your bathroom gets decent natural light, it's practically screaming out for a snake plant. They’re not too fussy about humidity, so those steamy showers you love won’t bother them one bit. Plus, a bathroom plant adds a touch of tranquillity – it’s like having your own day spa.

4. Home Office or Study

Need a productivity boost? Placing your snake plant on a desk or bookshelf in your home office isn’t just aesthetically pleasing. The clean air and vibrant greenery give you every excuse to procrastinate... in a good way, of course!

Pay Attention to Pot Placement

While a good spot for light is non-negotiable, don’t forget to consider airflow and sturdiness. You don’t want your snake plant teetering on the edge of a wobbly stand where kids or pets have access to it. Locate it on a stable surface, in a pot with a drainage hole to avoid waterlogging.

Temperature: Keep Things Comfortably Warm

Snake plants hail from West Africa, so they’re accustomed to warm, cosy conditions. Try to keep them in rooms that sit comfortably between 15°C and 26°C. Anything cooler, and they might start sulking. (Yes, they’re tough, but even tough guys have limits!)

Final Reminder: Listen to Your Plant!

Here’s the thing about nature – it always whispers clues! If your snake plant’s leaves start drooping or fading, it’s politely trying to tell you it’s not happy. Maybe the light’s too weak, the air’s too dry, or you’ve overdone it with water. Experiment with small changes until your plant perks up like it’s had its morning coffee.

So, where will your new snake plant call home? The possibilities are endless, but one thing’s for sure: with a bit of thought and care, it’ll thrive and make your space look fresher than a spring breeze.

Happy planting! 🌱

Cheers,

Candeece