Are your snake plant’s roots deep? Is it capable of supporting shallow roots?
Plants like this one often confuse newbie gardeners when they buy them from the shop.
Typically, the size of the leaves is the reason for such confusion.
Having elongated leaves, the snake plant generally gives you the impression that its roots spread vigorously as well.
What is the truth behind this beautiful indoor plant’s root system?
I have provided some insights on this topic in the guide below, which should help answer some of your questions.
Do Snake Plants Have Deep Roots?
Snake plants have no deep roots at all!
This type of desert plant has a shallow root system, which is quite common.
Snake plants are native to Africa, and the climate conditions there are suitable for the plants.
In harsh environments, native plants have adapted to use available resources efficiently.
The Snake plant is no different!
Despite its shallow roots, the plant does not send its roots deep into the sand, saving it energy and resources.
In these conditions, the roots of the plant focus more on supporting the plant instead of looking for water and other resources.
The rhizome is also an important part of this plant’s root system.
Snake plants also possess rhizomes, which serve as a storage system for the plant.
Water and nutrients are stored here so that the plant can flourish. That’s how the plant has adapted to survive in challenging environments.
Does Snake Plant Need a Larger Pot?
No, not really! In addition to having shallow roots, the plant has a leafy green canopy. Since the roots won’t spread as much as they would in some other plants, they won’t spread as widely. As a result, you won’t need a larger pot for this plant. The Snake plant can also be planted in multiple pots in a larger pot if you have one. It is lovely to have them together and they add so much to the decor of the home.
However, there is one thing you should keep in mind while planting the Snake plant at home. If it receives decent growing conditions, it can become root bound. Therefore, it is always better to have a medium-sized pot than a small pot for this plant. Using this type of container will help you grow your plant at a reasonable rate. You won’t have to repot it every now and then, either.
Why Does My Snake Plant Turn Brown at Base?
The overwatering in the pot is likely to blame. Snake plants do not mind a lot of water, but they don’t like being overwatered for long periods of time. The plant will begin to exhibit symptoms of root rot if the water doesn’t drain out quickly. As a result, the leaves will turn brown. From the base, the leaves begin to turn brown.
Make sure that the soil isn’t too wet.The quickest way to solve the drainage issue is to drill several holes in the pot. Providing fresh soil mix and repotting such plants can also help.This should prevent further damage to the plant.Taking action quickly is also important here. The plant may also become infected with fungus if you allow it to remain in a moist condition.The damage to the plant becomes harder to control once the fungus has spread. A plant’s ability to grow and manage conditions that cause overwatering depend on the amount of sunlight it receives.
You can simply place the planter under the sun if there is a bit of extra water in it.
It should help evaporate some of the moisture from the surface.
While Dividing Snake Plant Rhizomes, Keep These Things in Mind
Snake plants often produce pups from the soil, which is why they are so popular.When they are attached to the main plant, it is impossible to remove them. Therefore they will stay in the same pot.Plants will compete for soil resources as a result of this. You need to know how to divide rhizomes and plants from pots in order to avoid this situation. To make this process easier, follow the guidelines below. You might want to take a look at them.
Remove the Plant from Its Pot
In this process, we are starting at the beginning.
It would be easier to carry out the next tasks if the plant were removed from the soil.
Beginners are now pulling the new shoots without removing them from the pot.
Rhizomes or new plants should not be removed this way.
Plants and their root systems will be more damaged if it is done this way.
Examine the Root System in Detail
Check the root system of the plant as soon as you remove it.
It is important to check the plant’s roots for any problems.
You should avoid following these steps if your plant appears weak or to have root rot.
Rather, your focus should be on fixing any existing issues that might require your attention at this time. In the meantime, if the plant is doing well, you can proceed to the next set of steps for rhizome division.
Get Dirt Off the Roots
Once the dirt is removed from the roots, you should be able to see the entire root system.
Water spray can be used to remove the sticky soil from the roots.
Cut the Rhizome
Now is the time to separate the rhizome! You can use either a sharp knife or scissors to complete this process. It is possible to divide the rhizome into two or more parts using both tools.Make sure each plant has ample roots when you cut the rhizome.You should probably stop this process if you don’t see roots in the shoots.In the new pot, the plant will struggle to thrive if the rhizome is cut without roots. Therefore, be careful when performing this task.
It is possible that the new growth won’t survive in the pot if you plant it immediately.
Plant the Baby Plants in New Pots
If your rhizomes drier out, you might consider moving them to a new pot.This plant requires well-draining soil.
New shoots can even be transplanted into very small pots and gifted to family and friends.The main plant, however, needs to be placed in a larger pot in order to continue growing.