Snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata), also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, are some of the most resilient and low-maintenance houseplants.
They not only purify the air but also thrive in almost any condition. If you’re looking to expand your collection, propagating snake plants is an excellent and rewarding way to do so.
In this article, we’ll explore four easy and effective methods to propagate your snake plant: by division, by leaf cuttings in soil, by leaf cuttings in water, and by rhizome propagation.
Why Propagate Snake Plants?
There are several reasons why propagation is a great idea:
Affordable way to expand your collection – No need to buy new plants when you can grow them yourself.
Great for gifting – Propagated plants make thoughtful and inexpensive gifts.
Rejuvenates older plants – Helps refresh overgrown or struggling snake plants.
Air purification – More plants mean better indoor air quality.
Now, let’s dive into the four easy propagation methods.
1. Propagation by Division (Best for Large Plants)
The easiest and fastest way to propagate a snake plant is by dividing the root ball. This method works best if you have a mature, well-established plant with multiple stalks.
Steps to Propagate by Division:
Remove the Plant: Carefully take the snake plant out of its pot and shake off excess soil to expose the roots.
Identify Sections: Look for natural separations in the root ball. Each section should have at least one healthy leaf and a portion of the root system.
Cut with a Sharp Knife: Use a clean, sharp knife or shears to cut the plant into separate sections.
Replant: Place each division into a new pot with well-draining soil. Water lightly.
Best Conditions:
Use cactus or succulent soil for better drainage.
Avoid watering heavily right after transplanting to prevent root rot.
Place in indirect light for best growth.
Time to See New Growth: 4-6 weeks.
2. Propagation by Leaf Cuttings in Soil (Best for Single Leaves)
see continuation on next page
