Why Is My Snake Plant Drooping? Experts Say There Are 4 Reasons for Your Houseplant's Downfall
There will be no sad plants on our watch, so here's how to identify the cause and help your leafy greens stand tall again


As one of the most beloved houseplants for indoor gardeners, the snake plant is so incredibly popular. Known for its beginner-friendly personality and low-maintenance requirements, it's commonly gifted and adopted for its striking, verdant leafage. And while it's far from fussy, it may often exhibit droopy leaves when it's not properly cared for.
If your snake plant care game has been faltering lately (been there), then there are some chances it will show up in the form of leaves that aren't quite as tall and sprightly as they're known to be. Since the beauty of these plants relies strictly on foliage, this is one problem you'll want to take care of as soon as you can.
But if you're unsure of what the culprit could be or if you can even cheer up your snake plant and return it to its natural elegance, worry not. We've collected some expert insight to help you navigate the trials of being a plant parent. And spoiler alert: droopy leaves are not the endgame of your interior garden.
Reasons Your Snake Plant is Drooping
In conversation with Tony O'Neill, he tells us that there are a couple of snake plant mistakes that indoor gardeners should steer clear of.
Overwatering: "This is the most common reason for drooping in snake plants," he notes. "Overwatering leads to root rot, which compromises the plant's structure."
Underwatering: On the other hand, he explains that underwatering is also best avoided. "While less frequent, prolonged dry periods can also lead to drooping as the plant lacks the moisture needed to maintain rigidity," he explains.
Insufficient Light: "Snake plants need moderate natural light to maintain health," he advises. "Too little light can weaken the plant, leading to drooping leaves."
Pot Bound: Lastly, he points out that roots that have outgrown their pot can also cause stress and drooping.
Can You Fix a Drooping Snake Plant?
Oftentimes, when plants aren't looked out for on a regular basis, it can manifest in ways that aren't always treatable. In the case of droopy snake plants, Tony tells us that this consequence is definitely reversible.
Tammy Sons, founder at TN Nursery, also assures that snake plants can be cured of foliage that's falling over. "The key to fixing a drooping snake plant is finding out what caused it," she notes.
So, whether it's an error in how often you water your snake plant or if your crop has simply outgrown its container, identifying the active influence behind the problem is the best port of call.
How to Perk Up a Drooping Houseplant?
According to Tammy, this four-step process is a trusty guide to returning these popular houseplants to their regular cheerful selves.
Step 1 - Check Soil Moisture: "If the top two to three inches of soil are dry, water thoroughly," she advises. "Be sure to let the excess water drain out."
Step 2 - Check the Lighting Conditions: "Place your snake plant in a location to receive bright, indirect light," she says. "Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves."
Step 3 - Check for Root Rot: "If you suspect root rot, carefully remove the plant from the pot and inspect the roots," she explains. "Remove any soft, brown, or mushy roots."
Step 4 - Repot If Necessary: Last but not least, she recommends making sure your pot has good drainage and using a well-draining potting mix.
Snake Plants for a Renewed Indoor Garden
So, if your snake plant has been looking a little depressed lately, perhaps all it truly needs is a quick check-in and some necessary lifestyle adjustments to restore its energy.
And if you try all of our expert-approved tricks and still don't see a difference in your plant's silhouette, then perhaps it's been too long to reverse this droopy spell.
If so, take a look at our selection of snake plants and treat yourself to a new one so you can end the year with a flourishing green addition to your space.
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletters are your inside source for what’s shaping interiors now - and what’s next. Discover trend forecasts, smart style ideas, and curated shopping inspiration that brings design to life. Subscribe today and stay ahead of the curve.

Amiya is a Home Wellness Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated with a Masters Degree in Magazine Journalism from City, University of London, and has lent her words to beauty, fashion, and health sections of lifestyle publications including Harper’s Bazaar and Women’s Health. Her experience as a research analyst has equipped her with an eye for emerging trends. When she’s off the clock, she can be found reading, listening to music, or overanalyzing her latest Co-Star update.
-
I'd Have Never Thought Mid-Century Modern Style Would Work So Well for a Bathroom — But These 10 Examples Prove They're a Match Made in Heaven
The mid-century look gets a modern makeover in these stunning bathroom projects, all handpicked by the experts
-
Off to 3daysofdesign? These Are the Coolest Things to Do and See in Copenhagen This Week
We've broken down everything you should know ahead of the festival, from interactive installations to culinary pop-ups and more
-
How to Reset Your Home for Summer — 8 Tasks for the Next Month to Bring Calm Back to Your Rooms
Get your home back in neutral gear ahead of the busy summer months with this easy checklist of what to prep ahead of the holidays
-
Everyone's Swapping Their Cotton and Linen Bedding for Bamboo — This Is Why, and Where to Buy the Sets That Look Just as Good
Design-forward brands are launching bamboo bedding, a 'smart fabric' that might just make you sleep more soundly across the seasons
-
I'm Following This Interior Designer's Method for Growing Supermarket Basil Into Giant Plants — They Look Incredible in Her Kitchen
When it comes to getting basil plants to grow big and bushy, it's all about hydrating it the right way
-
6 Lessons in How to Hang Scarves From Closet Organizers That Will Make Your Wardrobe Feel So Much More Aesthetic and Elevated
These clever tips will keep your scarves in shape for the perfect finishing touch to your summer outfits
-
What to Declutter for Summer — 7 Areas That Need Your Attention Now
These seasonal decluttering tasks will help restore freshness to your home as you head into the summer season
-
This Classic Hallway Layout Could Be Ruining Your Home's Feng Shui — Hint: It's All to Do With Your Stairs
If you value the energy of your home, this is a crucial space to pay attention to
-
Alexa, Hit The Lights — These Smart Outdoor Lighting Options Are a Garden Game-Changer
Make illuminating your outdoor space that much easier to control by going all-in on Alexa-enabled garden lighting — this is what to know and what to buy
-
Did You Know 'Summer Insomnia' Is a Thing? Here's What's Keeping You From Drifting Off, and How to Beat It
Leave the counting of sheep to cartoons and pick up these sleep expert-approved tips for the summer season instead