How to Save Snake Plant with No Roots

Snake plants, often called Sansevieria or mother-in-law’s tongue, are some of the easiest indoor plants to care for. But even the toughest plants can face trouble, especially when they lose their roots. If your snake plant has no roots left, it may look like there’s no hope, but don’t throw it out just yet. You can still bring it back to life with the right steps and a little time.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to revive a snake plant that has lost all its roots and help it grow back healthy again.

Why Snake Plants Lose Their Roots

Understanding what caused the root loss is the first step in saving your plant. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Too Much Water

Snake plants don’t like wet feet. Overwatering is the leading cause of root rot. When the soil stays too wet for too long, the roots can become soft, black, and mushy, eventually disappearing altogether.

2. Poor Drainage

Using heavy soil or a pot without drainage holes can trap water around the roots. This creates a soggy environment that damages the plant’s root system.

3. Fungal Infection

Fungi and bacteria thrive in wet conditions. If your snake plant is exposed to these for long periods, it may develop root rot and lose its entire root system.

4. Physical Damage

Roots can be accidentally torn or cut during repotting or from pests damaging the base of the plant.

How to Know If Your Snake Plant Has No Roots

Not sure if your plant is rootless? Look for these signs:

• The plant falls over easily or feels loose in the pot.
• The base of the leaves looks soggy or dark.
• A foul smell comes from the soil.
• When you pull up the plant, no roots are attached.

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly to save the plant.

Can a Rootless Snake Plant Be Saved?

Yes! The good news is that snake plants are very tough and can regrow roots even if all of them are gone. All you need is a healthy leaf or base and the right method to encourage new root growth.

How to Save a Snake Plant Without Roots

Follow these steps to bring your plant back to life:

Step 1: Clean the Plant

Start by gently removing any dead or rotting parts. Cut away soft, black, or mushy sections using clean scissors or a knife. Make sure your tools are sterilized before and after cutting to avoid spreading any disease.

Let the cut areas dry out for 1–2 days. This helps the wounds form a protective layer and reduces the risk of rot when you try to regrow the plant.

Step 2: Choose How You Want to Regrow Roots

There are two easy ways to regrow roots on a snake plant: using water or soil.

Option A: Water Propagation

This method is great if you want to watch the roots grow.

1. Fill a clear glass jar with clean water.
2. Place the leaf or leaf base in the water. Only the bottom part should be submerged.
3. Put the jar in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight.
4. Change the water every few days to keep it clean.

Roots should start to appear within 2–4 weeks.

Option B: Soil Propagation

This method lets the plant grow roots straight into the soil.

1. Fill a small pot with well-draining soil (use cactus or succulent mix).
2. Stick the leaf cutting into the soil about 1–2 inches deep.
3. Water the soil just enough to keep it slightly moist, not wet.
4. Keep the pot in indirect sunlight and avoid moving it too much.

After a few weeks, the plant will start forming new roots below the soil.

Step 3: Care While Roots Are Growing

While your plant is recovering, give it special care:

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep it in bright but indirect light. Too much sun can stress the plant.
• Do Not Overwater: Let the soil dry out before watering again. Too much moisture will kill new roots.
• Don’t Fertilize Yet: Wait until the plant has a healthy root system before using fertilizer.
• Use the Right Soil: A fast-draining mix like cactus soil or a blend of potting soil and perlite works best.

Step 4: Repot When Roots Are Ready

Once your snake plant has grown new roots (usually after 4–6 weeks), it’s time to repot it.

1. Choose a small pot with good drainage.
2. Add a fresh mix of dry, well-draining soil.
3. Gently place the rooted plant into the pot and cover the roots with soil.
4. Water lightly and place the pot in a spot with indirect light.

Your snake plant should now start to grow taller and stronger.

Tips to Prevent Root Loss in the Future

Once your snake plant has recovered, follow these tips to avoid future problems:

1. Let the Soil Dry Out

Only water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. In cooler seasons, water even less.

2. Use Drainage Holes

Always use pots with holes at the bottom so extra water can escape.

3. Pick the Right Soil

Avoid regular garden soil. Use a light, well-draining mix designed for succulents.

4. Avoid Cold Drafts

Snake plants are sensitive to cold. Keep them in warm, stable temperatures.

5. Check for Pests

Occasionally, inspect your plant for signs of pests, especially around the base and soil.

Conclusion

A snake plant with no roots may look like it’s at the end, but with the right care, you can bring it back to life. Whether you use water or soil to regrow the roots, patience and gentle care are key. These tough plants are survivors, and with a little help from you, they’ll bounce back stronger than ever.

So don’t give up on your snake plant just because it lost its roots. Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll soon see fresh roots and new life emerge.