How To Save A Sunburnt Sansevieria

Imagine this: you’ve just rearranged your living room to give your plants a little more sunshine, and everything looks fabulous. But then you notice your beloved sansevieria, commonly known as the snake plant, is looking a bit off. It's not the usual vibrant green but has patches of brown and crispy edges. Sound familiar? Your sansevieria might be suffering from a sunburn.

In this article, we’ll chat all about how to rescue your sunburnt sansevieria and get it back to health. We’ll cover everything from identifying the signs of sun damage to providing the right care to nurse your plant back to its former glory. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and save that snake plant!

Spotting the Signs of Sunburn

First things first, knowing what sunburn looks like on a sansevieria is half the battle won. You might be wondering, "How on earth does a plant get sunburnt?" Well, just like us, plants can get too much of a good thing. Direct sunlight can be intense, and some plants aren’t big fans of soaking it up all day.

Here’s what you should look out for:

• Brown Patches: These are often the most obvious signs. They appear as dry, crispy spots, usually on the leaves that receive the most sun.
• Faded Color: The vibrant green of a healthy sansevieria can fade to a dull, washed-out hue when it's had too much sun.
• Crispy Edges: The edges of the leaves may become brittle and start to curl or crumble.

If you see these symptoms, it’s time to act fast. The quicker you address the sunburn, the better your plant’s chances of recovery.

Relocating Your Plant

Once you’ve identified sun damage, the next step is getting your plant out of harm’s way. While sansevierias are adaptable and can tolerate a range of light conditions, they do best in bright, indirect light.

Think of it like finding the perfect spot at the beach—not too sunny, not too shady. Here’s how you can relocate your plant:

• Move to a Shadier Spot: If your plant is near a south-facing window, try moving it to an east or west-facing window where it can enjoy the morning or afternoon sun without the harsh midday rays.
• Use Sheer Curtains: If relocating isn’t an option, sheer curtains can help diffuse the light, providing a much-needed buffer for your plant.
• Indoor Plant Stands: Elevating your plant on a stand can move it out of direct sunlight while still keeping it in a bright spot.

Adjusting your plant’s position might take a bit of experimenting, so don’t be afraid to try different spots until you find the sweet spot.

Pruning Damaged Leaves

Now that your plant is in a safer spot, it’s time to address those unsightly brown and crispy leaves. Pruning isn’t just about aesthetics—it helps your plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Here’s how you can give your sansevieria a little trim:

• Use Clean, Sharp Scissors: Clean tools prevent the spread of any potential diseases.
• Cut at the Base: Remove the entire leaf if it’s more than 50% damaged. Trim off just the damaged part if the leaf is mostly healthy.
• Don’t Overdo It: Only remove what’s necessary so your plant can still photosynthesize efficiently.

Pruning might feel a bit brutal, but it’s an important step in the healing process. Your plant will thank you for it!

Adjusting Watering Practices

Sunburnt plants often have different water needs since they’re healing. While sansevierias are drought-tolerant, they still need consistent watering, especially when recovering.

Consider these watering tips:

• Check the Soil: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot, which can occur if the plant is overwatered.
• Water at the Base: Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause further damage.
• Adjust Seasonal Watering: In winter, reduce watering frequency since the plant’s growth slows down.

Finding the right balance can take some time, so be patient and observant. Your plant will guide you with its response.

Feeding Your Sansevieria

While sansevierias don’t require much fertilization, a little extra nutrition can help them bounce back from sunburn. Think of it as a multivitamin for your plant!

Here’s how to feed your plant:

• Use a Balanced Fertilizer: A diluted, all-purpose houseplant fertilizer works well during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can do more harm than good, so stick to feeding once a month at most.
• Apply During Watering: Mix the fertilizer with water and apply it directly to the soil for best absorption.

Remember, patience is key. Your plant may not show immediate improvement, but with consistent care, it will regain its strength.

Monitoring Temperature and Humidity

Sansevierias are pretty laid-back plants, but they do have their preferences when it comes to temperature and humidity. Ensuring these conditions are optimal can aid recovery.

Here are some guidelines:

• Keep Temperatures Steady: Aim for a range between 60-80°F (16-27°C). Avoid placing your plant near drafts or sudden temperature changes.
• Humidity Levels: Sansevierias prefer low to moderate humidity. If your home is particularly humid, ensure good air circulation to prevent mold or mildew.
• Avoid Radiators and AC Vents: These can cause fluctuations that stress your plant.

Maintaining a consistent environment will support your plant’s recovery and contribute to its overall well-being.

Patience and Observation

Saving a sunburnt sansevieria isn’t an overnight affair. It requires a bit of patience and keen observation. Your plant will communicate its needs through its appearance, so stay attentive.

Here’s what to watch for:

• New Growth: Fresh, healthy leaves mean your plant is on the mend.
• Color Changes: A return to a vibrant green indicates improved health.
• Leaf Firmness: Healthy leaves should be firm to the touch, not floppy or wilted.

Above all, don’t rush the process. Plants have their own timeline, and sometimes all they need is a little time and TLC.

Preventing Future Sunburn

Now that you’ve nursed your sansevieria back to health, let’s talk about prevention. You’ve worked hard to save your plant, so let’s make sure it stays lush and happy.

Consider these preventive measures:

• Test Light Levels: Use your hand to gauge light intensity—if your hand casts a strong shadow, it might be too bright.
• Rotate Your Plant: Regularly turning your plant ensures all sides get equal light exposure, preventing one side from getting too much sun.
• Mind the Seasons: Light intensity changes with the seasons. Adjust your plant’s location as needed, especially in summer.

These small adjustments can make a big difference in keeping your sansevieria safe from sunburn.

Final Thoughts

To wrap things up, saving a sunburnt sansevieria involves a combination of prompt action, careful observation, and a bit of love. By identifying the signs early, adjusting light and water conditions, and providing the right care, you can help your plant recover and thrive once again.

At Cafe Planta, we understand that plant care is a journey, and we're here to help you along the way. Whether you're looking for the perfect plant addition or need advice, our team is just a message away. Feel free to email us or drop us a DM on Instagram. We're excited to share our passion for plants and to help you create a thriving green space in your home.