Root Rot

Overwatering

To address root rot, first, remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, mushy roots, leaving only healthy ones. Let the roots air dry for a few hours before repotting in fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes. Moving forward, water your snake plant only when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry to the touch, avoiding a fixed watering schedule. Monitor the plant's recovery and adjust care as necessary.

Leaf Wrinkling and Curling

Underwatering

To address leaf wrinkling and curling in snake plants caused by underwatering, it's crucial to establish a consistent watering schedule. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water deeply until excess water drains out. Avoid letting the plant sit in water. If the soil is extremely dry, soak the pot in a water bath for a few minutes to ensure thorough rehydration. Adjust watering frequency based on seasonal changes, watering more during the growing season and less in winter.

Mealybugs Infestation

Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy substance. They typically infest the crevices and undersides of snake plant leaves, sucking sap and weakening the plant.

To combat mealybugs, start by isolating the affected plant to prevent the pests from spreading. Gently wipe the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the bugs. For more severe infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the affected areas, following the product's instructions carefully. Ensure to treat all plant parts, including under leaves and in crevices. Repeat the treatment every 7-10 days until the infestation is cleared.

Red Leaf Spot

Fungal infection caused by Drechslera erythrospila.

To manage Red Leaf Spot, it's crucial to maintain a clean environment around your snake plant. Remove and destroy any infected leaves to prevent the spread of the fungus. Improve air circulation around the plant and ensure it's not in a too-humid environment. If the infection is severe, applying a fungicide may be necessary. Always follow the product's instructions carefully and treat the plant as recommended. Preventive measures include avoiding overhead watering and ensuring the leaves remain dry.