Snake plants, known scientifically as Sansevieria and commonly called Mother-in-law’s Tongue, are among the most beloved houseplants.
If you’re like me, you might find yourself wanting more of these beauties around your home. The good news? Propagating snake plants is surprisingly easy and super satisfying! No matter if you’re looking to expand your collection, share with friends, or simply give your mature plants some breathing room, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dividing and repotting snake plant pups.
Personally, I prefer this method of propagation over leaf cutting propagation. There are several reasons for that, for example, dividing and repotting pups is much faster, has a higher success rate, and results in healthier plants with established root systems.
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What You’ll Need
- A mature snake plant with visible pups
- A sharp, sterilized knife or garden shears
- Pots with drainage holes
- High-quality potting soil
- Perlite or vermiculite
- Red lava rock (optional)
- Rubbing alcohol (for sterilizing tools)
Removing the Snake Plant from Its Pot
Gently remove the snake plant from its pot. If the soil is compacted, loosen it around the edges. Carefully slide the plant out, taking care not to damage the roots. Think of it as gently coaxing your plant out of its snug home, ready for its new adventure.
Preparing for Propagation
First things first, gather all your materials. Sterilize your tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent infections—this step is crucial for the health of your plants. Think of it as preparing a clean operating room for your plant surgery!
Separating the Pups
Look for the rhizomes connecting the pups to the parent plant. These thick, horizontal stems store nutrients.
Using your sterilized knife or garden shears, cut the rhizome cleanly. Make sure each pup you separate has a portion of the rhizome and some roots attached. This is the key step in dividing the pups from the parent plant. Take your time to ensure clean cuts to avoid any unnecessary damage to the plant.
Repotting the Pups
Choose pots that are big enough for the rhizome and root system, giving them room to grow. Make sure these pots have drainage holes. If they don’t, you can add some using DIY methods.
Prepare a potting mix by combining standard potting soil with 30-40% perlite or vermiculite for good drainage to prevent root rot. Fill each pot with this potting mix to the top.
Create a hole in the center of the soil large enough for the roots of the pup. Place the pup in the hole, spreading out the roots evenly. Fill in around the roots with more potting mix, pressing gently to remove air pockets.
Ensure the crown (where the leaves meet the root system) isn’t buried under the soil. Leave a gap of about 1-2 inches between the soil surface and the pot rim to make watering easier.
After repotting, water each pup thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom. Let the excess water drain completely into a saucer, then pour out the excess water.
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Repotting the Parent Plant
Once you’ve finished with the pups, it’s time to repot the parent plant. Choose a pot that is about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot, ensuring it has drainage holes. Start by filling the pot halfway with the prepared potting mix. This will provide a stable base for the roots.
Place the parent plant on top of the soil in the center of the pot. Hold the plant steady and fill in around the roots with more potting mix, pressing gently to remove air pockets. Ensure that the crown of the parent plant is not buried under the soil. Leave a gap of about 1-2 inches between the soil surface and the pot rim for easy watering.
Water the parent plant thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom. Let the excess water drain completely into a saucer and then pour out the excess water.
Aftercare
Place your newly repotted plants in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight initially, as they might be a bit sensitive after the move. Wait at least a month before fertilizing, and then use a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
FAQs
Snake plant pups can take a few weeks to a couple of months to establish and start growing after propagation.
Yes, but dividing pups and planting them in soil generally yields quicker and more reliable results.
Water them thoroughly after repotting and then sparingly. Typically, you should water every 2-3 weeks, but this can vary depending on factors like temperature, humidity, and light conditions. Ensure the soil is completely dry before watering again.
A well-draining potting mix with added perlite or vermiculite works best.
They prefer bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves.
Spring and summer are ideal, as the plants are in their active growing phase.
