How to Make a Snake Plant Bushier

Indoor gardeners who want an attractive and easy-to-grow plant might choose the tropical snake plant (Sansevieria) or "mother-in-law's tongue." This long-living, low-maintenance plant adapts readily to virtually any growing environment as long as it is warm. If your snake plant begins looking leggy, use standard pruning techniques to make the plant bushier. With basic care and attention to growing conditions, a snake plant should live for many years.

Pruning shears or scissors
Basket or bag

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the snake plant for unhealthy foliage, which may appear discolored or may be falling away from the plant horizontally. Healthy foliage grows vertically and has deep, variegated color.
- 2
  Trim away the unhealthy foliage with pruning shears or scissors. Cut off the leaves from the base of the plant. Do not partially trim leaves, because the snake plant may respond to this injury by stopping its growth. Pruning from the base will cause energetic growth, making the plant appear fuller, or "bushier."
- 3
  Discard the foliage in a basket or bag. Never leave plant refuse around the base of a plant -- it looks untidy and can cause disease.

How to Grow Shamrocks Indoors

Terra Cotta Pots With White Mold on Houseplants

Indoor Growing