Why Your Laurentii Snake Plant Is Growing Sideways

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or Mother-in-law’s tongue, are popular houseplants due to their low maintenance and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. One specific variety of snake plant, the Laurentii, is characterized by its long, sword-like leaves with yellow edges. However, if you notice that your Laurentii snake plant is growing sideways instead of upright, there are a few possible reasons for this behavior.

Insufficient Light

One of the most common reasons why snake plants grow sideways is insufficient light. Snake plants are native to West Africa and are accustomed to bright indirect light or even some direct sunlight. When they don’t receive enough light, they tend to stretch towards the nearest light source, causing them to grow sideways.

To address this issue, try moving your Laurentii snake plant to a location where it can receive more natural light. Place it near a window that receives bright indirect sunlight for a significant portion of the day. If natural light is limited in your space, you can also supplement it with artificial grow lights specifically designed for indoor plants.

Uneven Watering

Overwatering or underwatering your Laurentii snake plant can also lead to sideways growth. Snake plants are succulent plants that store water in their leaves, making them highly tolerant of drought conditions. However, if you consistently overwater your snake plant, the roots may become waterlogged and rot, causing the plant to lean or grow sideways.

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause the plant to tilt as it tries to reach out for water sources. To ensure proper watering, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water. Additionally, ensure that your pot has proper drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the roots.

Pot Size and Stability

The size of the pot and its stability can also affect the growth pattern of your Laurentii snake plant. If the pot is too small or shallow, the snake plant may not have enough room for its roots to spread out, leading to an unstable growth pattern. This can cause the plant to lean or grow sideways in an attempt to find balance.

To remedy this issue, consider repotting your Laurentii snake plant into a larger and more stable container. Choose a pot with proper drainage holes and use well-draining soil specifically formulated for succulent plants. Repotting will provide more space for the roots to grow, allowing the plant to establish a stronger and more upright growth habit.

Natural Growth Habit

It’s important to note that some sideways growth in snake plants can be entirely normal. Snake plants naturally tend to grow in a rosette form, with leaves fanning out in different directions. This growth pattern can create a beautiful and unique display, especially when displayed in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where the leaves can drape down gracefully.

If your Laurentii snake plant is healthy, producing new leaves regularly, and displaying vibrant foliage, there might not be any cause for concern. Embrace the natural growth habit of your snake plant and enjoy its distinctive appearance.

Pruning and Propagation

If the sideways growth of your Laurentii snake plant bothers you, pruning can help encourage more upright growth. Trim off any excessively long or drooping leaves using clean and sharp gardening shears. Make sure to cut the leaves close to the base of the plant to promote new growth.

Additionally, you can propagate your snake plant by dividing it into smaller clumps. Gently remove the entire plant from its pot and separate the roots into individual sections. Each section should have a few leaves attached to it. Repot these smaller clumps into their own containers with well-draining soil, and they will grow into new plants with a more upright growth habit.

In conclusion, if your Laurentii snake plant is growing sideways, it is likely due to insufficient light, uneven watering, pot size and stability, or simply its natural growth habit. By addressing these factors and making appropriate adjustments, you can encourage your snake plant to grow more upright. Remember to provide adequate light, water your plant appropriately, choose a suitable pot size, and embrace the unique beauty of your snake plant’s natural growth pattern.