How to Remove the Offsets From a Mother-in-Law's Tongue Houseplant

The so-called mother-in-law tongue, or snake plant, is classified as Sansevieria trifasciata. Part of the large agave family, snake plant has thick, succulent leaves that point upward and dark green markings resembling a snake. Rising to popularity in the 1930s, this plant makes a carefree houseplant that will live for many years. In areas with mild winters, it can be grown outdoors. Plants often produce offsets, or side shoots, when they become root-bound, which is a good time to separate these baby plants and give the older plant more room to grow.

Knife
Potting soil
Small pots

Instructions

- 1
  Remove your root-bound mother-in-law's tongue plant from its pot when it forms side shoots, also called offsets.
- 2
  Cut offsets away from the base of the plant by breaking them off with your fingers or cutting them with a small, sharp knife. Include as many roots as possible for each offset.
- 3
  Fill small pots with standard potting soil and water until it runs out the drainage holes.
- 4
  Scoop out enough potting soil to make room for the root system of the offset. Pace one offset into each small pot, cover with additional potting soil and water again.
- 5
  Place your potted offsets in a spot that does not receive full or hot sun. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- 6
  Replant your main plant, using fresh potting soil. Wash the pot if you use the same one to eliminate any chance of insect infestation or plant diseases.

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