How To Propagate Snake Plant? 4 Ways That Really Work!

Snake plants can really breathe life into a nursery, especially an indoor one. Though they might go unnoticed at first, the subtle simplicity they add, which compliments other surrounding plants, is unmatched.

In the bigger picture, snake plants do make a difference!

Though the process of propagating a snake plant isn’t that complex, it’s the many methods of propagation that can seem confusing to many.

No need to stress it though as this article will walk you through each and every one of the propagation methods in great detail. 

Sansevieria new plants growing roots from propagation by leaf cuttings with selective focus
Sansevieria new plants growing roots from propagation by leaf cuttings

Water propagation is perhaps the simplest of all methods. All you need is:

  • A leaf from the mother snake plant. 
  • A clear water container or vase.
  • Yep…that’s all. 

So, all you need to do is place the bottom side of the leaf-cutting in your water container in a way that submerges 25-30% of the leaf.

Make sure you get the angle right because new roots will sprout from the bottom portion that’s submerged in water.

Once the roots develop just enough (over the course of a few weeks), transfer the leaf to soil and let it thrive. 

The biggest advantage water propagation has is that it allows you to actually see the growing roots inside of the clear container.

Even if there is rot (which is common in water propagation unfortunately), you’ll pick up on it fairly quickly. 

Sansevieria succulent plants propagation closeup. selective focus
Sansevieria succulent plants propagation

Okay, so, for soil propagation you only pretty much need a pot with soil and a snake plant leaf (or two) that is cut right near the base of the soil

The process is the same as water propagation but here you’ll place the leaf in soil (obviously bottom portion first since that’s where the roots will sprout from).

Try to keep the leaf standing tall and upright in the pot. 

With soil propagation, you will need to worry about things like humidity, hydration, and root growth (which unfortunately won’t be visible).

However, on the bright side, there’s no hassle in terms of transferring the plant from water to soil; once it’s placed in the soil, it stays and grows there forever. 

So, seed propagation is a little lengthier process. First, I’d suggest you get quite a lot of snake plant seeds so that there’s room for experimentation.

In many cases, seeds will go bad or not produce a root – having extra will help

To germinate the seeds, put some inside of a moist paper towel and store in either a plastic container or ziplock bag.

A warm environment would be favorable to encourage the germination process. In a day or two, you’ll likely see a white root coming out of the seed. Take this seed and plant it in cactus or succulent soil for optimal growth

You can also try growing seedlings first in a small egg carton or ice tray filled with soil. Keep the soil moist for the best growth and plant the seedlings in a bigger pot when they’re about 3-5 inches tall. 

Dividing snake plant

To propagate a snake plant by division you first need to get your hands on a fully mature snake plant.

Then, pull out the whole plant with its roots attached and use your hands to separate clumps in the soil. There will be some resistance if the soil is hard, but try not to break the roots while removing the clumps. 

Once you have the mother snake plant all clear of dirt, cut it into smaller divisions with the clump of roots still attached at the bottom and plant them into separate containers with soil.

Moisture is important when the plant is vulnerable, so hydrate it often and even cover it with a plastic bag to retain humidity for a while. 

Well… As it turns out… A snake plant may not be as insignificant as people make it seem. As I mentioned, it can bring up the aura of a dull nursery and breathe simplicity into an environment full of sharp and vibrant plants!

If propagating the snake plant was a big mystery for you, I’m hopeful this article enlightened you with all the ways you can go about the propagation process. Best of luck with your gardening journey! 

How To Propagate Snake Plant? 4 Ways That Really Work!

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