How to Separate Snake Plant Pups

Snake plants are known for their beautiful upright leaves and toughness. They often produce small baby plants, known as pups, around their base. These pups can be removed and planted separately to grow new snake plants.

In this article, you’ll learn how to separate snake plant pups step by step, using simple tools and methods that are safe for the plant.

What Are Snake Plant Pups?

Snake plant pups are small shoots that grow from the base of a mature snake plant. These little offshoots form from the plant’s underground roots, called rhizomes. When the pups are big enough and have their roots, they can be carefully taken out and grown in their pots.

Best Time to Separate the Pups

You should remove pups when the plant is actively growing, usually in spring or summer. This helps the pups settle better and grow faster. Avoid doing this in winter, when the plant is resting and may not recover well from being disturbed.

Signs the Pup Is Ready:

• The pup is about 4–6 inches tall.
• It has its root system.
• The main plant looks crowded or too full in the pot.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following:

• A clean, sharp knife or scissors
• Gardening gloves
• New pots with drainage holes
• Well-draining potting soil (like cactus or succulent mix)
• A flat surface to work on

Step-by-Step: How to Separate Snake Plant Pups

1. Take the Plant Out

Lay the pot on its side and gently remove the snake plant. You might need to tap or squeeze the pot if the plant is stuck. Be gentle to avoid breaking the leaves or roots.

2. Identify the Pups

Look at the base of the plant and find the pups. They’ll be attached to the main plant by a thick root (rhizome). Check to see if the pup has roots, this is important for it to survive on its own.

3. Cut the Pup Free

Use your knife or scissors to carefully cut the pup away from the main plant. Make sure you don’t damage its small roots. If the pup doesn’t have roots, it can still be planted, but it may take longer to grow.

4. Let It Dry (Optional)

If the pup was cut from a thick rhizome, it’s a good idea to let the cut end dry for a day. This helps prevent rot when it’s planted.

5. Plant the Pup

Fill a small pot with fast-draining soil. Make a small hole, place the pup in, and gently press the soil around it. Keep the leaves above the soil line.

6. Water Gently

Water the pup lightly. Don’t soak it; too much water can rot the roots. Let the soil dry out before the next watering.

How to Care for the New Pup

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight is best.
• Water: Let the soil dry between waterings.
• Temperature: Keep the plant in a warm spot (above 60°F or 16°C).
• Fertilizer: Don’t fertilize right away. Wait at least 4 weeks before feeding the plant.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Separating too early: Wait until the pup has strong roots.
• Watering too much: This can cause root rot.
• Using the wrong soil: Regular soil holds too much water; use a fast-draining mix.
• Planting too deep: Keep the base of the leaves above the soil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I plant a pup without roots?

Yes, but it may take longer to grow. Make sure the soil stays slightly moist until roots develop.

How big should a pup be before I remove it?

It should be at least 4 inches tall and have some roots.

Conclusion

Separating snake plant pups is a simple and effective way to grow more plants. By following the steps carefully and making sure the pups have roots and are planted in the right soil, you can grow healthy new snake plants in no time.

With a little patience and care, those tiny shoots will turn into full-grown plants that brighten your home and clean your air.