How to Divide a Sansevieria Plant

Sansevieria plants are succulents prized for their foliage, which is available in both solid and variegated forms. There are well over 100 different cultivars and species to choose from, including common varieties such as mother-in-laws tongue and snake plants. Sansevieria plants are sensitive to cold temperatures and are grown indoors in most locations. They thrive in indirect sunlight and rich soil. Propagation is carried out by dividing the root system and replanting the sections in their own containers. This is best done during late winter or early summer.

Sharp knife

Planters

Potting soil

Liquid fertilizer

Go around the edge of the soil ball with a sharp knife to loosen it from the inside of the planter.

Hold the planter upside down and spread your hand over the top. Shake the planter gently until the sansevieria plant slides free.

Pull the roots apart carefully, dividing them into the desired number of sections. Use two garden forks to pry them apart if they prove difficult to separate.

Fill individual planters with potting soil and replant the divided sansevieria plants with their roots at the depth they originally grew.

Prepare a solution of water and liquid fertilizer, mixed at half the rate indicated on package instructions.

Moisten the potting soil thoroughly with the solution and position the newly divided sansevieria plants in locations with exposure to filtered sunlight.

Monitor the soil closely and water only when the top half inch feels dry.