Yellow leaves, black spots, and soft, mushy roots – these are all signs that your snake plant might be suffering from a fungal infection.
What you may not know is that this common issue is often caused by overwatering or poor air circulation. But don’t worry, fungus is treatable!
This guide will help you identify the signs and treat the problem. It also shows how to prevent it, keeping your snake plant healthy and lush.
Let’s dive in.
What Causes Fungus on Snake Plants?
Fungal infections start when the plant’s environment is too wet, humid, or dirty. These conditions allow fungus to grow:
Overwatering & Poor Drainage
Too much water is the number one cause of fungus in snake plants. When the soil stays wet for too long, root rot develops. The best way to prevent this is to use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.
High Humidity & Poor Airflow
Fungus thrives in warm, damp air. If your snake plant sits in a stuffy or humid area, it’s at risk. Keep your plant in a dry, well-ventilated space to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Related: Do Snake Plants Like to Be Misted?
Contaminated Soil or Tools
Fungal spores can spread through dirty pots, infected soil, or unclean gardening tools. Always sterilize tools and use fresh, high-quality soil to prevent contamination.
How to Identify Fungus on Snake Plants
Different fungi cause different symptoms. Here’s how to tell which one is affecting your plant:
- Root Rot (Pythium, Phytophthora): Yellow leaves, mushy roots, and a foul smell.
- Leaf Spot (Fusarium, Cercospora): Brown or black spots on leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: White powdery coating on leaves.
You can check quickly by pulling the plant gently from its pot. Black, mushy roots mean root rot. Spots or powder on the leaves mean a fungal infection.
How to Treat Fungus on Snake Plants
Remove Infected Leaves & Roots
Before treating, isolate your plant to stop the fungus from spreading. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut off yellow, mushy, or spotted leaves. If the roots are black and mushy, trim them too.
Improve Drainage & Dry the Soil
For root rot, repot your plant in dry, well-draining soil and use a terra cotta pot to absorb extra moisture. Let the soil fully dry before watering again.
Related: Does Snake Plant Need Drainage?
Use Natural Fungicides
There are several natural treatments you can try:
- Neem Oil Spray: Mix 1 teaspoon of neem oil with 1 cup of water and spray on leaves and soil every 5-7 days.
- Baking Soda Solution: Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 quart of water and spray infected leaves once a week.
- Cinnamon Powder: Sprinkle cinnamon on the soil to fight fungal spores naturally.
Use Chemical Fungicides (For Severe Cases)
If natural remedies don’t work, try a copper-based fungicide. Always follow label instructions carefully to avoid harming your plant.
Effective Ways to Prevent Fungus on Snake Plants
Water Correctly
Water your snake plant only when the soil is dry, usually every 2-3 weeks. Avoid getting the leaves wet because fungus thrives on moisture.
Give It the Right Growing Conditions
Place your plant in bright, indirect sunlight, keep humidity below 50%, and improve airflow by using a fan or opening windows.
Keep Tools & Soil Clean
Sterilize gardening tools with rubbing alcohol and always use fresh, high-quality potting mix when repotting.
Key Takeaways:
- Prevent fungus by avoiding overwatering.
- Treat infections with pruning, natural fungicides, and better airflow.
- Keep plants healthy by maintaining proper light, humidity, and soil conditions.
FAQs About Snake Plants & Fungus
Can I Save a Snake Plant with Root Rot?
Yes! Cut off mushy roots, repot in dry soil, and reduce watering. Your plant may take a few weeks to recover. More in: How to Save a Snake Plant from Root Rot
What’s the Best Fungicide for Snake Plants?
For natural treatment, use neem oil. For severe cases, try a copper-based fungicide.
Is Fungus on Snake Plants Contagious?
Yes! If one plant has fungus, keep it away from others and sterilize tools after use.
Wrapping Up
Preventing fungus on snake plants is all about the right environment, proper watering, and timely treatment. If you follow the advice in this guide, your plant will stay fungus-free and continue to thrive for years.
Always remember, healthy plants are more resistant to diseases. Treat them right, and they’ll reward you with beautiful, vibrant leaves.
Stay vigilant, and your snake plant will be fungus-free!
