What indicators suggest that a snake plant needs repotting?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Knowing when to repot your snake plant is crucial to prevent root damage and ensure your plant grows healthily. A few indicators that your snake plant needs to be repotted are if the roots are sticking out of the drainage holes or if the water is draining too quickly. Each spring, I always take time to inspect my plants to look for those signs. Another sign that a plant needs to be repotted is slow growth, despite providing proper care.
Root System Clues
- Roots circling the pot interior forming dense mats
- Visible roots growing through drainage holes
- Roots pushing the plant upward out of its container
Growth and Drainage Issues
- Water immediately draining without soaking soil
- No new leaf production for over six months
- Plant becoming top heavy and tipping frequently
Soil and Container Problems
- Soil pulling away from pot edges creating gaps
- Visible cracks in plastic or ceramic containers
- Salt crust formation on soil surface
Late winter is the best time to repot your plant right before it starts to grow in the spring, leading to less stress on the plant. First, prepare fresh cactus soil mixed with perlite. Second, find a new pot that is 2 inches wider than your current pot, and also ensure that it has drainage holes. Third, after the repot, water lightly to settle the roots into the new pot.
How often you need to repot will depend on how fast the plant grows. For rapidly growing types, every two years is likely sufficient. More slowly growing plants can last in the same pot for 4 or 5 years. Remember that when you are repotting, inspect the roots for any fungal rot. If you find a damaged root, then trim it with sterilized scissors.
After repotting the plants, place them in bright, indirect light and retain them for 6-8 weeks without fertilizing. I look for new leaves as a sign of success. I do keep my repotting tools sanitized to reduce the chance of plant disease among plants.
Read the full article: How to Care for Snake Plant: Ultimate Guide
