Snake Plant Decline: Overwatering and Scale

Pat's snake plant (Sansevieria) since 2010 shows chewed-looking marks, thinning foliage, and tan fibrous areas. A friend's plant from the same source thrives.

Two Main Culprits

1. Overwatering – the #1 killer. Water thoroughly once weekly, discard saucer water, and let soil dry between waterings. Rot-prone.
2. Scale insects – small, immobile bumps. Treat with horticultural oil (SunSpray) every 7–10 days.

Remedial Steps

• Remove all dead/rotten tissue.
• Allow to dry if soil is soggy.
• Spray fungicide (e.g., Triple Action Plus) if rot suspected.
• Check for cat damage—cats love snacking on snake plants.