Can a Snake Plant Live in Water – Ultimate Growing Guide

Yes, a snake plant can indeed live and thrive in water. Unlike many other houseplants, snake plants possess the unique ability to adapt to various growing conditions.

Growing snake plant in water allows you to create attractive displays and enjoy the advantages of low-maintenance care.

The snake plant also known as Sansevieria can adapt to various growing conditions and they are easy to care for plants. While they naturally grow in arid regions of West Africa, their ability to tolerate low water availability has enabled them to adapt to life in water-filled environments as well. 

Further, the snake plant is an air-purifying plant, it effectively filters out toxins and releases oxygen, promoting a healthier environment. Whether placed in bright or low-light areas, the snake plant thrives and requires minimal watering.

Can Snake Plant Live in Water?

Snake Plants can live in water. It’s actually quite fascinating how they can thrive in this unique way. All you need to do is to keep its water clean and provide them with the right amount of sunlight.

You have a couple of options when it comes to growing them in water. You can place a mature Snake Plant in a water-filled container or propagate a new one from an existing plant.

One of the biggest advantages of growing Snake Plants in water is the time and effort it saves you. Unlike plants in soil, water-planted Snake Plants require less maintenance because you don’t have to worry about watering them regularly. 

Growing a snake plant in water requires careful consideration of the container, proper propagation techniques, and ensuring strong root development for long-term success.

Choose an appropriate container that can hold water effectively. A sturdy vase or large glass is good to provide stability and support for the growing plant. Take a cutting from a mature snake plant, ensuring that it has several healthy leaves. 

Root development is key to establishing a thriving snake plant in water. Check the growth of roots and ensure they are healthy and well-developed. As the plant begins to establish itself, the roots will serve as the main connection for water absorption and nutrient uptake.

Maintain a consistent water level in the container. Avoid water stagnation and change the water periodically to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria.

Check this: How Long Can Snake Plant Go Without Water?

How to: Growing Snake Plant in Water?

Snake plants are low-maintenance plants and can be successfully grown in water. Let’s see each method step by step –

Method – 1 Propagation from Leaf Cuttings

Step 1 Prepare the Materials

Select a healthy snake plant leaf from the parent plant. Prepare a clean, sturdy container that can hold water. A glass vase or jar works well. Fill the container with fresh, room-temperature water.

Step 2 Take the Leaf Cutting

Using clean pruning shears or a sharp knife, make a clean cut at the bottom of the mature snake plant leaf. Ensure the cutting is at least a few inches long, with a straight edge at the bottom.

Step 3 Place the Cutting in the Water

Submerge the cut end of the leaf-cutting into the water, making sure the bottom inch or two is immersed. Rest the leaf-cutting on the edge of the container, allowing it to be partially supported while the roots develop.

Step 4 Maintain the Water and Observe its Growth

Keep the water level consistent, ensuring the submerged portion of the cutting remains in the water. Place the container in an area that receives indirect sunlight. Over time, the cutting will develop roots from the submerged portion and sprout new growth.

Method 2 – V Cutting

Step – 1 Gather the Necessary Materials

Choose a healthy Snake plant leaf and prepare clean pruning shears or a sharp knife ready. Prepare a clean jar or container to hold water for the propagation process.

Step – 2 Perform a V Cut on the Leaf

Cut off a mature Snake plant leaf near its base using clean pruning shears or a sharp knife. Create an upside-down V-shaped notch at the bottom of the leaf, ensuring the cut is clean and precise.

Step – 3 Allow the Cut End to Dry

Let the cut end of the leaf dry for 2-5 days. This drying period helps prevent rotting and promotes better root development. The V-shaped cut raises the cuttings slightly, allowing room for roots to grow.

Step – 4 Place the Leaf in the Water

Fill a clean jar with water, ensuring that the water level is slightly above the V-cut end of the leaf. Submerge the bottom part of the leaf in the water, while the upper portion remains above the water’s surface.

Step – 5 Monitor Root Growth

Find a well-lit spot for the jar, avoiding direct sunlight. Check the water level regularly, maintaining it slightly above the V-cut end. Over the next 3 to 5 weeks, roots will begin to develop from the bottom of the leaf cuttings.

Now, at this point, you can decide whether to transplant the rooted cuttings into well-draining soil or let them continue growing in water.

Can you transfer Snake plant from soil to water?

You can easily replant a Snake plant from soil to water, allowing you to enjoy its beauty while simplifying the care routine.

Step 1 Prepare Materials

Gather a healthy Snake plant that has been growing in the soil. Have a clean vase, container or jar ready to hold water for the plant. Obtain fresh water for the replanting process.

Step 2 Carefully Remove the Plant from the Soil

Gently loosen the soil around the plant’s roots using your hands. Lift the Snake plant out of the soil, carefully do it by not to damage the roots.

Step 3 Rinse the Roots

Place the Snake plant under a gentle stream of water to wash away excess soil. Gently remove any remaining soil particles, being careful not to harm the roots.

Step 4 Prepare the Water Container

Fill a clean container or vase with fresh water. Ensure the water level is sufficient to cover the roots of the Snake plant.

Step 5 Place the Plant in Water

Submerge the cleaned roots of the Snake plant into the water-filled container. Position the plant so that the roots are fully immersed in water, while the leaves remain above the waterline.

Step 6 Choose the Right Location

Find a suitable spot for your Snake plant in water, preferably near a source of indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, as it can cause damage or excessive heat.

Step 7 Observe and Maintain

Regularly check the water level to ensure it covers the roots adequately. Replace the water every 1-2 weeks to prevent stagnation and maintain cleanliness. Keep an eye on the health of the plant, ensuring it receives proper light and shows signs of growth.

Also Read: Why My Snake Plant is Dying?

Is it better to root Snake plant in water or soil?

When it comes to rooting Snake plants, the choice between water and soil has its own benefits and concerns. Rooting in soil often results in stronger and hardier roots, providing long-term benefits for the plant.

Direct contact with soil promotes robust root development, allowing the plant to thrive and adapt easily. Soil also offers natural nutrient availability, supplying the necessary elements for healthy growth. However, rooting in the soil can be a slower process that requires patience.

On the other hand, rooting Snake plants in water is a popular and easy method. It offers simplicity and convenience. But, it increases the chances of rot and transplant shock.

Despite these potential drawbacks, rooting in water can still be successful if proper care is taken, such as using clean water and checking the health of the cuttings.

Overall, the choice is yours whether you decide on soil or water. Both ways are best and promote the successful growth of snake plants.

Can you put a Snake plant in water?

Growing a snake plant in water is a convenient option for plant owners. It offers several benefits and requires minimal effort to maintain. Placing a snake plant in water eliminates the need for soil and simplifies the care routine. 

This method is perfect for those looking for a low-maintenance method. Caring for their needs, such as providing adequate sunlight and regularly changing the water, can help promote their growth.

Important Tips to Grow Snake Plant in Water

Here are some tips to grow snake plants successfully in water – 

Choose Healthy Cuttings

When starting with water propagation, select healthy snake plant cuttings. Look for leaves with no signs of damage or disease. This will give your plant the best chance to thrive and grow. Avoid snake plant with yellow leaves.

Optimal Water Level

Maintain the water level slightly above the base of the cuttings, allowing the roots to access the moisture. Avoid completely submerging the leaves in water, as this can lead to rotting.

Clean Water

Regularly change the water every week to prevent the buildup of bacteria and keep the environment clean for your snake plant. Fresh, clean water will help ensure the plant’s health and growth.

Indirect Sunlight

Place your water-grown snake plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Although snake plants can tolerate low light conditions, they still benefit from some sunlight to maintain their vitality.

Temperature Concerns

Maintain a moderate temperature for your water-grown snake plant, ideally between 50°F to 95°F. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations, as it can affect its growth.

Check this: Do Snake Plants Like Coffee Grounds?

Fertilizing

For snake plants, it is recommended to apply a liquid fertilizer designed specifically for them once a month during the spring and summer seasons. This is when the plant is actively growing and can benefit the most from the added nutrients. 

Growing a snake plant in water takes time, so be patient. It may take several weeks or even months for the roots to develop and new growth to appear. If you’re growing snake in soil, then you should avoid underwatering it and you can fertilize it with crushed eggshell powder.

Conclusion

Growing a snake plant in water is not only possible but also offers several advantages. It provides a convenient and low-maintenance option, saving time and effort in watering and soil care. However, water-grown snake plants require proper care, including regular water changes and monitoring for any signs of rot or damage. 

With the right conditions, such as clean water, adequate sunlight, and healthy cuttings, you can successfully grow a thriving snake plant in water.