African Spear

It is best to allow the soil of an African Spear to dry out completely between waterings. Over-watering is often to blame when an African Spear wilts, so it is important to reserve water when the soil is nice and dry. Water once a week to fortnightly, depending on the temperature and light level. Warm, bright conditions may require more frequent watering, while cool, low-light conditions may require less water and longer dry periods.

African Spear is tolerant of both low and bright light, but grows best in bright indirect sunlight, such as from a south-facing window. Avoid direct light to prevent leaves from fading or burning. In areas with low to medium light, African Spear will tend to grow more slowly and develop thicker leaves. If your plant is consistently exposed to low-light, then it may be best to give it a break from direct sunlight on occasion to prevent it from becoming too leggy.

In its native habitat, African Spear is used to hot, humid climates with temperatures ranging from 60-90°F (15-32°C). While it is tolerant of slightly lower and higher temperatures, it is most comfortable between these limits. Too cold temperatures can cause browning of leaves and reduce growth, and too hot temperatures (over 90°F or 32°C) can cause wilting. If your home can be quite warm, consider placing it near an open window or air conditioning vent during the summer months.

African Spear does best with medium to high humidity levels, preferably above 50%. Overly dry, indoor air can cause brown edges on its leaves. To raise humidity levels, consider misting your African Spear every few days or creating a humidity tray by setting it on a tray of stones filled with water. The rocks should be above the water line to ensure the plant’s roots are not sitting in water.

African Spear prefers a light, well-draining potting soil that contains organic material such as peat moss. A general mix of 1:1:1 proportion of potting soil, sand, and peat moss makes an excellent mix for this plant. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-6.5. The soil should also be supplemented with enough fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for optimal growth.

African Spear benefits from light fertilization during the spring and summer months, every two weeks, using a general houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Always follow the instructions for the particular fertilizer you are using. In the winter months, fertilizer is not recommended, as the plant is in its resting phase. Keep in mind that over-fertilizing can cause salt build-up in the soil, so it is best to be careful and limit usage on young plants and those in small containers.

African Spear is relatively resistant to pests, but may be prone to attacks from mealy bugs, spider mites, and scale. In severe cases, aphids can also occur. Infestations can be treated with DIY garden sprays and commerically available insecticidal soaps. Isolate your plant from other plants in order to prevent the spread. For an indoor environment, make sure all drains and vents are sealed off to keep pests from outside making their way in. If any pests do infest the plant, consistently inspect and treat the plant until the infestation is cleared up.

African Speart should be re-potted every two years in well-draining, humus-rich soil. Repotted plants may also require staking since heavy excess foliage without proper support can cause the stem to bend and lean. Choose a large, shallow pot against the natural limited growth of the plant and position the pot so that it can receive enough light. Water generously after re-potting and then use sparing amounts of water until the plant becomes fully established.

Prune African Spear when it starts to overtake its surrounding space. Carefully cut off individual leaves or foliage clusters from their base to encourage bushier growth. Sansevieria cylindrica can also be pruned when it starts to topple over from its own weight due to the lack of support from growth in the center. Use sanitized, sharp scissors or pruning shears to safely remove the excess length.

Mulching can provide African Spear with an influx of needed nutrients to support healthy growth. Apply a thin layer of organic mulch, such as peat moss or compost around the base of the plant. Mulch compost is slowly released into the soil as it breaks down, which helps to improve soil texture, aeration, and moisture.

African Spear can be easily propagated using leaf cuttings. Choose a mature leaf and use a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors to cut the leaf at its base. Let the cuttings air dry for 24 hours, and then place them in a pot filled with equal parts of sand and peat moss. Water the soil and keep in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. It is best to keep the soil damp, but not soaked, until roots start developing.

African Spear should be propped up with a thin stake or support to give its heavy leaves the support it needs. If it leans over too much, it can lead to an unbalanced look or a weak stem that eventually may break. A bamboo stake works well with providing needed support.

African Spear does not require a specific monthly rest period, or dormancy period, as its growth rate is quite slow. However, in the summer season, providing enough direct sunlight and ample air ventilation is necessary for the plant’s health. During the cold winter months, provide bright, indirect sunlight and limit fertilizer and water to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

African Spear is non-toxic to both cats and dogs, but this is not an exhaustive list, and other animals may react differently. Properly supervise your pet when it is around the plant to ensure it is not consumed, as excessive consumption can lead to serious health concerns.