How And When To Repot A Snake Plant

With a nickname like mother-in-law’s tongue, one might think snake plants are anything but lovable. Yet, despite the moniker and the connotations associated with it, snake plants continue to be one of the most popular houseplants. They require very little care, which can make it difficult to judge if repotting a snake plant would be beneficial.

When To Repot a Snake Plant

As a general rule of thumb, snake plants can be repotted every 3 to 5 years. These popular houseplants prefer being a bit snug in their pots. In fact, snake plants won’t produce flowers unless they feel the stress of being rootbound.

Yet, holding off the repotting process for too long can be detrimental to the health of the plant. If you’re unsure, look for these telltale signs that it’s time to transplant a snake plant:

• There are roots growing on the surface of the soil or through the drain holes of the planter.
• Water runs through the pot too quickly.
• The leaves are rotting at the base from overwatering or poor drainage.
• The plant is overcrowded and needs divided.
• The pot has cracked from the pressure of being rootbound.

How to Repot a Snake Plant

Follow these tips to reduce transplant shock and help your snake plant adjust to its new home:

• Size matters – Choose a planter which is about 2 inches (5 cm.) larger in diameter than the current pot. An excessively big container will retain too much moisture and may not adequately support a top-heavy snake plant.
• Sanitize equipment – To prevent the spread of viral, bacterial and fungal diseases, sterilize all tools and any pots which have been previously used.
• Choose a lightweight soil – To discourage root rot, select a commercial potting mix designed for cacti or blend your own soilless medium.
• Water well – To prevent wilting and reduce transplant shock, hydrate the plant at least an hour before beginning the snake-plant repotting process.
• Remove gently – To avoid damaging the foliage and roots of the plant, turn the pot on its side and push or tap the bottom to release the snake plant. If the planter is already cracked, cut or break the remaining pot for ease of removal.
• Examine and prune the roots – Healthy roots are firm to the touch and are white or off-white in color. Remove sections of roots which exhibit signs of damage. Loosen or cut through dense mats of roots to encourage new growth.
• Division – Removing and repotting snake plant pups will give the plant a tidier appearance. Keep these new plants for yourself or share with family and friends.
• Line the pot – Place a coffee filter, coir liner or circle of landscape fabric in the bottom of the new pot to prevent soil leakage. Avoid using gravel in the bottom of the pot as this does not facilitate drainage and can lead to root rot.
• Don’t plant too deep – Replant the snake plant to the same depth as before. Be sure to leave the soil level about an inch (2.5 cm.) below the top edge of the planter.

After repotting, water to settle any loose soil and place the snake plant in bright, but indirect sunlight.