Introduction
The snake plant is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for. It can grow up to three feet tall and has long, narrow leaves. The snake plant is also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue because of the shape of its leaves.
It is easy to propagate snake plants by taking a stem cutting from the mother plants. There are a number of ways to propagate snake plants and we will be going through 3 different ways.
Snake plant care
Snake plant does not need much water or fertilizer. It should only be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. The potting mix should also be allowed to dry out before watering again.
How to propagate snake slant by leaf cuttings
Find a healthy snake plant with more than 1 healthy leaf. This is to ensure that the original plant will still have the resources to survive even after removing a leaf cutting.
Use a sharp knife to cut out a leaf cutting from the base of the plant
Determine which method of propagating snake plant you prefer
Follow the instructions given in the section below
How to propagate snake plant By Rhizome
What is rhizome
Rhizomes are the horizontal stems that snake plants send out underground in order to create new plants. The rhizomes can be divided into smaller pieces and planted in moist soil with the roots facing down.
Step by step process of propagating snake plants by rhizome
You can propagate a snake plant by taking a rhizome and planting it in moist soil or potting mix.
The first step in propagating snake plants by rhizome is to remove the old leaves from the plant and retain only healthy leaves.
The next step is to cut off the top inch of soil from around the plant and then pull up on one side of the rhizome, which should come out easily.
Afterward, cut off any damaged or dead roots and then place them in a pot with fresh soil. (You can use regular potting soil for this)
The rhizome should be planted at least 2 inches deep and watered regularly until it starts growing new leaves on its own.
Keep the pot in a warm, bright place until new shoots start to grow out of the rhizome pieces
Once new shoots are visible, transplant them into individual pots or containers with moist soil and provide them with plenty of light until they are ready for planting outdoors or indoors on a windowsill or porch in full sun conditions.
How long does it take to propagate snake plant cutting by rhizome
The propagation of snake plant leaf cuttings by rhizome is a very simple process. It takes about two weeks for the rhizome to form roots and be ready to be transplanted into soil.
Benefits of propagating snake plant cuttings by rhizome
The benefits of propagating snake plant leaf cuttings by rhizome are numerous. You can create an endless supply of plants that will grow and thrive in your home. or office.
The leaves can also be propagated using a piece of the rhizome, which allows you to create new plants without needing to repot your existing plant.
How to propagate snake plants in water
Fill a pot with water and set it on the floor in an area where it will get plenty of sunlight.
Place the snake plant cuttings in the water so that it is submerged about halfway up their length.
Put the pot somewhere where it will get plenty of bright indirect light
Keep checking the water level every few days to make sure it doesn’t dry out or emit any foul smell. It is recommended to change the water every 3 days
How long does it take to propagate snake plant cutting in water
The propagation process is not difficult, but it does take time. It can take up to two weeks for the snake plant cuttings to develop roots in the water and produce new snake plants.
Benefits of propagating snake plant cutting in water
No special equipment is needed
Propagating snake plants through water propagation is a great alternative to the pot and soil. The only thing you need is a glass or cup with some water and the snake plant cuttings.
Minimal Mess
Propagating snake plants through water propagation is less messy than other propagation methods. You don’t need to worry about dirt or pots, just add the snake plant cuttings to some water and wait for roots to form.
Easily check on snake plant root growth
Propagating snake plants through water propagation allows you to easily check on the roots for any new growth without having to remove the plant from the soil
How to propagate snake plant cuttings in soil
Take a clean, sharp knife and cut off a leaf from the mother plant.
Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and trim off any brown edges or dead spots.
Fill a pot with moist soil, place the cutting on top of it, and cover it with soil up to its base.
Water thoroughly until water comes out of the drainage hole at the bottom of your pot.
Place your pot in an area that gets plenty of sunlight or under grow lights if you live in an area where there is not much sun during the winter months.
How long does it take to propagate snake plant cuttings in soil
It takes about 3-4 weeks for the leaf-cutting to take root and start growing new leaves.
Benefits of propagating snake plant leaf cuttings in soil
Easy transplanting
If you propagate your snake plant in peat pots, it will be very easy to transplant into a bigger pot with minimal disturbance to the roots.
Snake plant propagation problems
One of the most common problems with propagating the snake plant is that it will not root. Another problem with propagating the snake plant is that it will rot at the stem before it has rooted. These can all happen as a result of having too much or too little water.
Read the full article on Snake Plant Propagation Problems (and Solutions)
Common FAQ
What kind of potting soil does a snake plant need?
Snake plants can grow well in almost any soil condition. However, to maximize their growth potential, snake plants need soil that has good drainage and aeration. The best soil for snake plants should be light and porous, which will help them to breathe.
If in doubt, simply use an All-Purpose Peat-Free Potting Mix that is sure to help snake plants grow better.
Do snake plants have deep roots?
Snake plant is not a deep-rooted plant as it does have shallow roots. This means that snake plant can be easily moved around and it doesn’t need to be planted in the ground.
Do snake plants need deep pots?
Snake plants are not like other plants that need deep pots to grow. They can grow in a wide variety of containers, including shallow ones.
Is it better to propagate a snake plant in water or soil?
The first way is by propagating it in water. This method is best for people who are not very good with plants and are not able to take care of them properly. The second way is by propagating it in soil. This method requires more time and effort but the plant will grow better than if it was propagated in water.
