Repotting Snake Plant: When & How 

When to Repot Snake Plants

The optimal period for repotting a snake plant is during the active growing season, spring, as it emerges from its winter rest and begins to grow more vigorously. In terms of the specific time of the day, the morning offers cooler temperatures and gives your plant the entire day to adjust to its new environment before the cooler night temperatures set in. 

Key indicators that showcase it’s time to repot your snake plant include:

• The plastic container is splitting or cracking
• The plant occupies the full extent of the pot, reaching the interior sides
• Frequent tipping over of the plant
• Water passing through the pot too swiftly
• Roots protruding from the pot’s drainage openings
• The appearance of several new offspring or pups
• The plant not having been repotted for up to five years

How to Repot Snake Plants: A Detailed Guide

Repotting your snake plant is an easy yet delicate process. Following the guides below, you’ll know how to repot your snake plants properly. 

1. Choosing the Right Pot

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to give your snake plant room to grow. The new pot must have adequate drainage holes at the bottom to prevent excess water accumulation, which could lead to root rot. Terra cotta pots are a great option as they allow the soil to dry more evenly, but any pot with drainage will work.

2. Selecting the Appropriate Soil Mix

Snake Plants prefer a well-draining, sandy soil mix that mimics their natural arid environment. For enhanced drainage, consider mixing in additional perlite or pumice. This modification ensures that water flows freely through the soil, reducing the risk of overwatering.

3. Removing the Plant

Now you can start removing the snake plant from its current pot. Tip the pot sideways, supporting the plant with one hand. Tap the bottom and sides of the pot to loosen the soil. Pull the plant out by grasping it at the base, being careful not to damage the leaves.

4. Inspecting and Pruning the Roots

Once removed, inspect the roots closely for any signs of decay, disease, or pests. Healthy roots are firm and white or yellow in color. Use your scissors or pruning shears to cut away any damaged or dead roots, ensuring your tool is clean to prevent disease spread.

5. Transferring Snake Plants to the New Pot

Pour a layer of your well-draining soil mix into the bottom of the new pot. This layer should be thick enough to raise the plant to its original height within the pot, usually a few inches. Then place your snake plant in the center of the new pot and start filling around it with the soil mix. Tap the pot gently on your work surface to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. 

6. Repotting Finished 

With the snake plant placed centered and supported by the fresh soil, gently press down around the base to firm the soil and eliminate any remaining air pockets. Ensure the plant stands upright and is at the same depth it was in the original pot.

It’s normal for the plant to take a few weeks to settle in fully and start showing signs of growth. The rate of growth varies depending on its environment. Placed in a spot with ample sunlight, a snake plant will sprout new leaves and can potentially increase in height by 3 to 6 feet annually. 

Conclusion

With the right tools and knowledge, repotting your snake plant is a straightforward process that can greatly benefit your plant’s health and growth. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure your snake plant thrives in its new home, continuing to purify your air and beautify your space for years to come.