Do Snake Plants Need Deep Pots?

Snake plants are popular houseplants known for their upright leaves, easy care, and ability to clean the air. If you’re new to growing these plants, you might wonder:

Do snake plants need deep pots?

The simple answer is no. Snake plants grow best in wide and shallow pots rather than deep ones. In this article, you’ll learn why deep pots aren’t the best choice and how to pick the perfect pot for your snake plant.

Understanding How Snake Plants Grow

To choose the right pot, let’s start by looking at how snake plants grow beneath the soil.

Snake plants have shallow root systems. Their roots do not grow very deep into the soil. Instead, they spread outward, just below the surface. They also grow horizontal stems called rhizomes, which produce new shoots.

This means they prefer a pot that gives them room to grow sideways, not downward.

Why Deep Pots Don’t Work Well

Using a deep pot for a snake plant can cause more harm than good. Here’s why:

1. Too Much Moisture

Deep pots can hold more soil, and more soil holds more water. Since snake plants do not need much water, this can lead to soggy soil and root rot. The deeper the pot, the harder it is for the bottom soil to dry out.

2. Unused Space

Because snake plant roots grow outward, not downward, the lower part of a deep pot stays empty. This unused space keeps moisture locked in and doesn’t benefit the plant in any way.

3. Root Rot Risk

When water sits at the bottom of a deep pot for too long, it can cause the roots to rot. This can lead to soft, mushy roots and yellowing leaves – signs that your plant is in trouble.

What Kind of Pot Do Snake Plants Prefer?

Now that we know deep pots aren’t ideal, let’s look at what kind of pots snake plants love.

Shallow and Wide Pots

Snake plants grow best in pots that are wider than they are deep. This allows their roots and rhizomes to spread freely. A wide pot also gives new shoots space to grow without crowding.

Drainage Holes Are a Must

Always use a pot that has drainage holes. These holes allow extra water to escape, keeping the roots dry and safe from rot.

Terracotta or Clay Pots

Pots made from clay or terracotta are great because they let moisture evaporate. This helps prevent overwatering, one of the biggest problems for snake plants.

How to Choose the Right Pot Size

Picking the right size pot is important for healthy growth. Here’s a simple guide to help you:

• Small plants (under 10 inches tall): Use a 4–6 inch wide pot.
• Medium plants (10–20 inches tall): Choose a 6–8 inch wide pot.
• Large plants (20+ inches tall): Go with an 8–12 inch wide pot.

Tip: Only move to a slightly larger pot when repotting — never jump to a much bigger pot. Snake plants grow better when their roots feel a bit tight.

When Should You Repot a Snake Plant?

Snake plants don’t need to be repotted very often. They like being slightly root-bound. However, there are times when a new pot is necessary:

• Roots are growing out of the drainage holes
• The plant looks too crowded or top-heavy
• The pot is cracking from root pressure
• Water drains too quickly or doesn’t drain at all

If any of these happen, choose a wider pot with good drainage, not a deeper one.

Can Snake Plants Grow in Small Pots?

Yes, snake plants can grow well in small pots, especially when they’re young. As long as there is enough room for the roots and proper drainage, small pots work just fine. Many people start snake plant cuttings or pups in small containers before moving them to a bigger pot later.

What Happens If You Use a Deep Pot?

Putting a snake plant in a deep pot may not harm it immediately, but it could cause problems over time. These include:

• Slower growth due to soggy soil
• Root rot is caused by trapped moisture
• Yellowing or soft leaves from damaged roots
• Poor air flow around the roots

That’s why it’s better to avoid deep pots unless you’re planting something with deep roots, which snake plants don’t have.

Final Thoughts

So, do snake plants need deep pots?
No, they don’t.

Snake plants are shallow-rooted and prefer wide, shallow pots with drainage holes. Choosing the right pot shape and size helps prevent root rot, supports new growth, and keeps your plant healthy.

To summarize:

• Use wide pots, not deep ones
• Make sure the pot has good drainage
• Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound
• Avoid overwatering, especially in large or deep pots

By giving your snake plant the right kind of pot, you’ll help it grow strong, stay healthy, and thrive in your space.