7 Disadvantages Of A Snake Plant That You Should Know

There is a huge demand for snake plants, but one should also know about the snake plant disadvantages before making a purchase as it can help in taking good care of it. Snake Plant is a species of flowering plant, which it really doesn't look like, from the family of Asparagaceae. The scientific name of the snake plant is Dracaena Trifasciata and is commonly known as Saint George's sword, mother-in-law's tongue, and viper's bowstring hemp.

Below are seven disadvantages/problems of a snake plant. Make sure to keep in mind all of them so that you don't end up buying a plant that is not good for you.

1. It Grows Slow

One of the main disadvantages of a snake plant is that it grows at a slow rate when placed indoors. However, it has been a favourite choice of many as an indoor plant. The plant loves to expand roots a lot, and putting it into a planter restricts the root spread, which affects the formulation of additional leaves. Well, slow growth can be good for those who don't have optimum time to care for the plant, such as pruning it.

2. The Problem of Propagation

Your snake plant can make you deal with several types of propagation problems. It requires dexterity so that you don't affect its propagation and you don't end up hurting your plant badly. Some people choose water, and some choose to cut for propagation. Water is the easy way, but overwatering the plant can cause root rot. And not cutting it ideally brings the risk of it getting hurt.

3. It Is Toxic For Humans & Pets

A high-risk snake plant disadvantage is its toxicity. Snake plants are poisonous when chewed or ingested. It is must mention that it might not be a big problem for adults, but for those who have kids and pets in their home, the toxicity of the snake plant is a disadvantage to consider. All parts of the plant are toxic as they contain a chemical called Saponin.

4. Leaves Falling Over

Snake plants make a good choice for a decorative house plant because of the beauty of their leaves. But one snake plant disadvantage is that you need to be very careful because leaves can fall or turn white. And this is the sign showing the ill health of the plant. Potting issues like poor planting material, dark areas where the plant is placed for too long, and overwatering can be the reasons for falling leaves.

5. Bringing Bad Luck

Many people believe that the snake plant brings bad luck with itself. Even though it is not beloved by all, it is a disadvantage that can't be ignored. According to people's beliefs, bad luck is associated with poverty and negative energies. So, if you are a person who believes in good luck and bad luck, the snake plant is not a good choice.

6. Cold Temperature Requirements

One of the disadvantages of snake plant is that it requires a cool temperature to grow well and stay healthy. This requirement of the plant limits its cultivation to specific regions. It requires a temperature of 55 to 80°F during the daytime and a temperature of 55 to 70°F during the nighttime.

7. Regular Fungus Attack

Another problem with snake plants is that they encounter fungal attacks very often. The fungal disease can appear on any part of the plant, but it mostly attacks the beautiful leaves of the plant. The fungal attack leads to diseases such as the southern blight and red leaf spot. This snake plant disadvantage should be considered if you are not a good caretaker of plants.

If you are ready to make the purchase of the snake plant after knowing the disadvantages/problems, then it is better to buy from an online plant nursery. You will get amazing planter options that are best for decorative reasons.