Are you a plant enthusiast looking to expand your collection? If so, the Birdsnest Sansevieria might just be the perfect addition to your home. As an avid collector of houseplants myself, I can confidently say that this particular species stands out among the rest. With its unique appearance and easy-care nature, it has quickly become one of my favorites.
Just last year, I noticed two baby shoots sprouting from the side of my Birdsnest Sansevieria. Excitement filled the air as I pondered whether to divide the plant or wait. Seeking advice from Judy, our FGS houseplant coach, I was advised to exercise patience for two reasons. Firstly, the babies needed to grow larger, and secondly, it was not the appropriate time to repot houseplants. (Did you know that there’s actually a ‘houseplant repotting season’? It falls during the late spring and summer months, when plants are in their prime growing season.)
Now, here we are in the middle of April, and the time has come to take action. The babies have flourished, and the houseplant repotting season has arrived. Mama Sansevieria stands proudly on the left, while the two babies sprout with potential on the right. It’s time for them to leave the nest and establish their own roots.
Dividing the Birdsnest Snake Plant: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gently Remove the Plant from its Pot
To begin the process of dividing your Birdsnest Sansevieria, carefully remove the plant from its pot. If the soil is dry, it should come out easily. Take a moment to marvel at the roots exposed before you, as they eagerly anticipate the next phase of their growth.
2. Loosen the Roots and Remove Excess Soil
Gingerly loosen the roots and remove a significant amount of the soil surrounding them. Don’t fret – this step is beneficial. By providing fresh soil (while retaining some of the old), you create an environment that promotes even better growth. As you remove the soil, you’ll start to see the baby shoots emerging from the sides of the mother plant. These tiny shoots, with their own set of growing roots, symbolize new beginnings.
3. Carefully Separate the Babies from the Mother Plant
Now comes the delicate task of separating the babies from the mother plant. While this may evoke a sense of sadness, rest assured that you’re doing the babies a favor. Gently pull each baby shoot away from the mother plant. If they don’t detach easily, use a sharp knife or clippers to cut the shoot as close to the base as possible. Here, you can witness the new life that remains, ready to thrive independently.
4. Mix Old and New Soil
Prepare a mixture of old and new soil to create the perfect blend for your Birdsnest Sansevieria. I highly recommend using the Espoma Organic Cactus mix, as it is specifically formulated for succulents like the Sansevieria. By combining the old soil with the fresh, you offer your plant a smooth transition into its new environment.
5. Fill the New Pots with Soil
When filling your new pots with soil, ensure that the base of the plant sits approximately half an inch below the rim of the pot. This placement accounts for future soil additions and allows sufficient space for watering. Remember, a happy plant needs room to flourish.
6. Plant and Settle the Soil
Now, gently place your Birdsnest Sansevieria into the pot, making sure the soil level is correct. Begin filling the surrounding area with soil, taking care not to pack it too tightly around the roots. Give the planter a few taps on a hard surface to settle the soil, allowing for proper airflow and drainage. Leave a half-inch gap between the rim of the pot and the soil, ensuring adequate room for watering.
It’s time to give your newly repotted plants a refreshing drink of water. Capture the moment and share it with the world on your favorite social platform. Feel free to tag us @fgsdurham, and if your photo includes a countertop overflowing with approximately 12 plants, you’ll instantly become our favorite – a kindred spirit and fellow plant hoarder. We love you!
8. Remember to Fertilize
When the time comes to fertilize your plants, be sure to include these new additions in the process. Most indoor plant fertilizers recommend fertilizing every two weeks during spring and summer (April to August). Familiarize yourself with the instructions of your chosen fertilizer, and I personally recommend the Espoma Organic Indoor Houseplant Food for optimal results.
And there you have it, my fellow plant enthusiasts! If you ever need assistance with repotting your plants or have any other plant-related inquiries, remember that we’re always here for you. Happy dividing and repotting!
