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Learn how to tell if it's time to give your snake plant a new home
Is your snake plant feeling a bit cramped in its current pot? Snake plants (sansevieria) are ideal for beginners due to their low light and water requirements. They only require repotting every few years, making them incredibly low maintenance. Discover the signs indicating your snake plant needs repotting and ensure it continues to flourish. Continue reading for comprehensive guidance on when and how to repot your snake plants for optimal growth.
This article is based on insights from our plant specialist, Chai Saechao, owner of Plant Therapy. Read the full interview here.
Essential Information
- Repot snake plants every 3–5 years.
- Watch out for roots protruding from drainage holes or pot cracks, signaling the need for repotting.
- Select a pot that's 2 in (5.1 cm) larger than the current one. Utilize cactus potting mix to fill around the roots.
Procedure
Frequency of Repotting Snake Plants
Reevaluate your snake plant's need for repotting every 3–5 years. Snake plants prefer snug conditions within their pots, so frequent repotting isn't necessary. With proper care, they can thrive in the same pot for several years before requiring more space to grow.
- Repotting prematurely may lead to excess moisture retention in the soil, resulting in root rot.
Indicators for Repotting a Snake Plant
Visible roots emerging from drainage holes indicate the need for repotting. Lift your snake plant and inspect the pot's bottom for protruding roots. When roots extend beyond the pot, it's time to upgrade.
Observing pot bulging or cracking signals root congestion. As snake plant roots outgrow their space, they exert pressure on the pot. Plastic pots may show bulges, while clay or ceramic pots may develop small cracks due to root pressure.
- You may also notice stunted growth or crowding of foliage within the pot.
If your snake plant is tipping over, it’s outgrown its pot. The weight of a larger pot and additional soil will stabilize your plant as it continues to grow.
- Look for bright green new growths ('pups') near the soil surface, indicating the need for more space.
Rapid draining of potting mix signals the need for repotting. When soil dries out quickly, it's a sign of insufficient potting mix. Repotting with fresh mix will ensure your plant's vitality.
- Yellowing or withering foliage may occur due to lack of moisture retention in the soil.
Repotting Guide
Choose a pot with drainage holes, 2 in (5.1 cm) larger than the current one. Any pot with drainage will suffice; ensure it's only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid water retention issues.
- After a few years, snake plants snugly fit their containers, which may lead to minor cracks in ceramic or clay pots. Timely repotting prevents pot breakage.
Layer the pot's base with cactus potting mix. Opt for well-draining soil to prevent water retention. Add 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) of mix to allow root expansion.
- Create your own cactus mix by blending 1 part standard potting mix with 2 parts perlite or orchid bark for improved drainage.
- Avoid garden soil as it may contain harmful bacteria or fungi.
Carefully remove your snake plant from its current pot. Use a blunt butter knife or trowel to loosen the roots and soil by running it around the pot's edge. Hold the base of the plant and gently lift it out, removing any loose soil from the roots.
- If you're interested in propagating your snake plant, separate 1–2 rhizomes (underground stems) and pot them individually. Alternatively, you can keep them attached for a larger plant.
Transfer your snake plant into the new pot with fresh soil. Position the plant's root ball in the center of the pot, ensuring the leaf bases are slightly below the rim. Fill the gaps around the plant with more potting mix, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between the soil surface and pot rim.
Give your snake plant a drink. Once it's settled in its new home, lightly water the soil to ensure good root contact. Allow excess water to drain out of the pot's drainage holes completely.
- After watering, place your snake plant in bright indirect sunlight during the day to promote healthy growth.
Additional Tips
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Plan to repot your snake plant in spring when it's actively growing for the best chance of success.
Cautions
- Snake plants can suffer from overwatering, especially following repotting. Water your plant sparingly, approximately every 2 weeks, when the soil is dry to the touch.
