Repotting a snake plant can seem daunting, but it’s actually a simple process that will keep your plant healthy and happy. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have your snake plant thriving in no time.
What You’ll Need
- Snake plant
- Pot at least 2 inches larger than the current pot
- Potting soil designed for indoor plants
- Trowel or small shovel
When to Repot a Snake Plant
Snake plants only need repotting every 2-3 years. Signs it’s time include:
- Roots coming out of the drainage holes
- Plant becoming top heavy or unstable
- Soil drying out very quickly
Choose a time when the plant is actively growing in spring or summer. Avoid repotting in fall or winter when growth has slowed.
How to Repot a Snake Plant Step-by-Step
1. Remove the Plant from its Pot
Turn the pot on its side and gently slide the plant out. You may need to carefully loosen the roots from the edges with your fingers or tapping the sides.
2. Examine Roots and Remove Excess Dirt
Gently loosen any circled or tangled roots so they spread outwards. Remove any loose dirt and dead roots.
3. Prepare the New Pot
Choose a pot at least 2 inches wider than the previous pot. Add a layer of potting mix to the bottom, enough so the plant sits at the same level as before.
4. Place the Plant in the New Pot
Position the plant in the center and begin filling in around the sides with more potting soil. Firm the soil around the base with your hands.
5. Water Thoroughly
Once planted, water well to settle the soil and eliminate any air pockets. Allow excess water to drain out.
6. Provide Aftercare
Place the repotted plant in bright, indirect light. Allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings. Fertilize monthly during spring and summer.
Tips for Repotting Snake Plants
- Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp leaves
- Sterilize pots and tools with diluted bleach solution before repotting
- Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Add perlite to potting mix to improve drainage
- Water sparingly after repotting to prevent shock
FAQ About Repotting Snake Plants
How often should you repot a snake plant?
Snake plants only need repotting every 2-3 years. Repotting too often can shock the plant and affect growth.
What size pot do you use for a snake plant?
Choose a pot 2 inches wider than the current container. The new pot should be proportional to the size of the root ball.
What kind of soil is best for snake plants?
A well-draining potting mix designed for indoor plants is ideal. You can add perlite, sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage.
Can you cut snake plant roots when repotting?
Yes, you can trim circled or tangled roots to encourage healthy outward growth. Use sterilized shears and cut any dead or diseased roots.
Should I fertilize after repotting a snake plant?
Fertilizer can burn new roots after repotting. Wait 2-3 months before applying fertilizer to give the plant time to establish.
What do I do if my snake plant is drooping after repotting?
Drooping after repotting is usually due to transplant shock. Make sure not to overwater and give the plant time to recover in its new pot.
Conclusion
With a little care and patience, repotting a snake plant is an easy process. Pay attention to rootbound signs so you can repot at the right time. Always use an appropriately sized container with drainage holes and well-draining soil. Once repotted into fresh soil, your snake plant will grow happily with the extra space for its roots.