Mother in law’s tongue, also known as snake plant or Sansevieria, is a popular houseplant known for its upright, sword-shaped leaves. While it prefers to be slightly rootbound, there comes a time when it needs repotting into a larger container. This allows the roots more room to grow and provides fresh potting mix
Repotting mother in law’s tongue is a straightforward process that any gardener can do successfully. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the steps for repotting this houseplant.
When to Repot Mother in Law’s Tongue
The best time to repot snake plant is in late winter or early spring, before the growing season begins This gives the roots time to establish in their new home before active growth starts
Watch for these signs that your plant needs repotting
- Roots growing out the drainage holes
- Soil drying out very quickly
- Slowed growth
- Tippy or cracked pot
Snake plants only need repotting every 2-4 years. Repotting too frequently can shock the plant.
Supplies Needed
Gather these supplies before beginning:
- New pot 1-2 inches larger than the current pot
- Fast-draining potting mix
- Hand trowel or knife to loosen roots
- Gardening gloves
Terracotta or ceramic pots work well as they allow excess moisture to evaporate. Make sure the new container has drainage holes.
Step 1: Water the Plant
Water your snake plant thoroughly a few hours before repotting. This will moisten and loosen the root ball making removal easier.
Step 2: Remove from Current Pot
To remove the plant, tilt the pot on its side and gently slide the plant out. You can also turn the pot upside down, cradling the plant in your hand, and gently squeezing the sides of the pot to loosen it.
Be careful not to damage the leaves or roots when removing it.
Step 3: Loosen the Roots
Examine the root ball and use your fingers or a knife to gently loosen any circled roots. This encourages outward growth in the new container.
Also inspect for any rotten or dead roots and trim those away.
Step 4: Add Potting Mix
Put a couple inches of fresh, well-draining potting mix into the new container. The mix should contain ingredients like perlite, coco coir, or sand to improve drainage.
Step 5: Repot the Plant
Place the snake plant in the new pot, positioning it at the same depth as before. The root crown where the roots meet the stems should sit just below the soil level.
Fill around the roots with more potting mix, tamping it down gently. Leave 1-2 inches between the soil and the rim so you can water thoroughly.
Step 6: Water the Repotted Plant
Give the freshly repotted plant a drink of water. Allow all excess to drain fully from the pot.
Caring After Repotting
Allow the soil to dry out some before watering again to prevent transplant shock. Keep the plant out of direct sun for a few weeks as the roots establish.
Hold off on fertilizing for about a month after repotting. Resume normal care once the snake plant appears healthy and adjusted to its new pot.
With the right timing, potting mix, and repotting techniques, repotting mother in law’s tongue is an easy process. In its new container, this low maintenance plant will continue growing for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I repot my snake plant?
Repot a snake plant every 2-4 years or whenever it becomes severely rootbound. Pot-bound plants may crack containers or show slowed growth.
Should I water after repotting snake plant?
Yes, water lightly after repotting to help settle the soil. Allow the soil to partly dry out before watering again to prevent wet conditions.
What is the best soil for repotting snake plants?
A well-draining potting mix amended with sand, perlite, or orchid bark works great. The soil should drain easily to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I repot my snake plant in summer?
While late winter or spring is ideal, snake plants can be repotted in summer if needed. Keep the plant shaded after repotting to prevent sun stress.
How do I know if my snake plant needs repotting?
Signs that indicate it’s time to repot include roots coming out the drainage holes, cracked or bulging pots, and poor growth. Repot plants that are severely rootbound.
Repotting your mother in law’s tongue into a larger pot with fresh soil is vital to keeping this houseplant healthy. Follow this guide for a successful transplant. Within a few weeks, your snake plant will be thriving in its new home.
LuEsther T. Mertz Library Plant & Research Help
How do I repot a mother in laws tongue? This plant is over 25 years old and still in its original soil. I can see the roots on top of the soil but the plant is still green and healthy looking.
The Dracaena species known as snake plants or mother-in-laws tongue were until recently considered a separate genus, Sansevieria, but have been reclassified following molecular examination.
Mother-in-laws tongue does indeed prefer to remain in the same pot, undisturbed, for as long as possible, though we would usually advise replacing some of the top layer of soil each year. They really like to be root-bound and can remain in the pot even when the roots come up above the top of the soil. Once the plant is close to bursting its pot or the leaves cover the entire surface of the soil, it is time for a change.
The right time to repot your plant is in the spring when it is entering a growing phase and will recover the most quickly from the transfer. Select a new pot with a drain hole in the bottom. Terracotta pots are good for these plants because they are heavy enough to balance the tall plant. Pack the bottom of the pot with some broken pot shards to help keep the soil draining freely. The proper, quick-draining, soil is essential. Potting soil plus one third sand or perlite and up to one third peat added works well.
Be as gentle as possible removing your plant from the current container. If you water ahead of time, the soil will be soft and easier to release from the pot. If it is firmly stuck, it may be necessary to break the old pot. The roots are relatively small and shallow for this plant. Handle them gently and dust the old soil from the roots as well as you can before repotting.
Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information