On the flip side, you don’t want to dehydrate your plant to the point of stress. A good rule of thumb is to water only when the soil is fully dry, which could be every 2–3 weeks depending on your climate.
I always water deeply when I do, making sure excess moisture drains out, then leave it alone until the next cycle.
Temperature and Seasonal Growth Spurts
Snake plants tend to grow fastest in warmer temperatures, and they slow down significantly in winter.
If you’re trying to force pup production, aim for temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). They can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C), but growth will slow dramatically.
I’ve also found that a slight change in temperature can encourage new growth. In early spring, I move my snake plants closer to the brightest window and increase watering slightly.
Feeding for Pups: The Right Fertilizer Approach
Snake plants don’t need much fertilizer, but a little boost during the growing season can speed up pup development.
The key is to use a balanced, diluted fertilizer, I usually go with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer at half strength. Applying it once every six weeks in spring and summer is usually enough.
However, if you overfeed, the plant might put all its energy into growing taller leaves rather than spreading rhizomes.
I learned this the hard way after giving one of my plants a strong dose of fertilizer, within weeks, the leaves shot up but not a single pup appeared.
Dividing Existing Pups to Encourage More Growth
If you’re lucky enough to have a snake plant that’s already producing pups, separating them can actually stimulate the mother plant to make more.
How to Force a Snake Plant to Produce Pups for Unlimited Babies
To separate a pup, wait until it has at least three or four leaves and strong roots.
Then, gently remove the plant from the pot, locate the rhizome connecting the pup to the mother plant, and use a clean knife or shears to cut it free.
I like to let the cut end dry for a few hours before repotting to prevent rot. Once you’ve replanted the pup in fresh soil, give it a little water and watch it take off!
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Sometimes, despite doing everything right, a snake plant still refuses to produce pups. If that’s happening, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
Plant is healthy but not producing pups: It might be too comfortable. Try repotting into a slightly smaller pot or moving it to a brighter location.
You notice rhizomes but no above-ground growth: Your plant might need a little extra energy. A small dose of fertilizer and slightly increased watering can give it the push it needs.
Plant seems stuck in survival mode: You should check for root rot: Overwatering can damage the rhizomes, preventing them from sending up new shoots.
How to Force a Snake Plant to Produce Pups for Unlimited Babies
