If your snake plant leaves have turned yellow, don’t panic. Some yellowing is natural and harmless, especially in large plants that are aging. But more often than not, it indicates a problem and needs to be addressed.

Overwatering is a common cause of snake plant yellow leaves These hardy succulents store water in their leaves and are drought tolerant. Unlike most houseplants, they do not need to be watered frequently. Instead, they should be watered when the soil is dry about an inch down. Overwatering stresses the plant, suffocates the roots and can lead to disease problems like root rot.

A poorly drained soil mix can also make the leaves turn yellow on a snake plant. These plants require a light, airy potting mix that drains well. Using a cactus soil mix or adding perlite or sand to the soil can improve drainage.

Troubleshooting Yellow Leaves on Snake Plants: Causes and Solutions

Another common issue is fungal growth. This can occur in moist environments such as a humid basement or overwatered pots. Fungal infections can cause yellowing, browning and even black leaves on the plant.

Pests like aphids can also cause a yellowing of the snake plant leaves. These sap-sucking insects can cause aphid rot, which causes the leaves to turn yellow and then brown.

Repotting the snake plant once or twice a year can prevent this. Repotting ensures that the soil has the right amount of nutrients and reduces stress on the plant. Also, avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can make the leaves turn yellow. Only fertilize the snake plant once or twice during the growing season to encourage growth.