Snake plants (botanically known as *Sansevieria*) are some of the toughest, coolest plants out there, and the best part? They are incredibly easy to propagate. While there are a few ways to do it, dividing the plant is by far the simplest and most successful method. Since the “babies” already have their own root systems, you get to skip that long, stressful waiting game of trying to get cuttings to root.
Which varieties can you divide?
Basically, any snake plant that grows from an underground root system (rhizomes) can be divided. However, I highly recommend this method for variegated varieties (the ones with those pretty yellow or white stripes). If you try to propagate variegated snake plants via leaf cuttings, they often lose their patterns and grow back plain green. Division ensures the new plants look exactly like the parent! It doesn’t matter if your plant grows in tall spears or short rosettes—division works for all of them.
When is the best time?
The best time to divide your *Sansevieria* is in the spring when you’re already repotting. Since you have to take the plant out of its pot anyway, it’s the perfect opportunity. Plus, combining these steps is much easier on the plant—it only has to settle into its new soil once.
If you’re feeling brave, you can also “stab” or cut away young pups while they’re still in the pot. You can do this any time of year, but it takes a bit of practice to make sure you’re hitting the right spot without accidentally damaging the mother plant.
How often should you do it?
How often you divide really depends on how fast your plant is producing pups. When it comes to how many pieces you want to propagate, you’ve got two main options:
- Split the main mother plant into two or three large chunks.
- Simply remove the small young pups from the side of the main plant.
Step-by-Step Guide to Division
To get started, you’ll need:
- A sharp, clean, and disinfected knife.
- New pots with fresh, well-draining soil.
Once you’ve got your gear ready, just follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the snake plant from its pot.
- Gently shake off the excess dirt so you can see the root ball.
- Identify your “division points” (where the pups connect to the main plant).
- Use your knife to slice through the rhizome.
- Pot up the individual pieces (the mother and the new babies) in fresh soil.
- Give them a light watering.
- Place them in a bright, warm spot and watch them grow!
