The snake plant has no roots. [Causes And What You Can Do] –ISBUZZLE

If you wake up one day to find that your snake plant has no roots, it can definitely be quite alarming.

This should actually be cause for concern as it is quite a serious problem.

Usually the reason for the lack of roots in a snake plant could be that the plant was overwatered causing the roots to rot, but there are other reasons as well.

One of the most important things required to provide proper snake plant care is to identify problems and fix them early before they go too far.

So here are the most likely causes and solutions for a lack of roots on your snake plant.

excess water

I have to say that the most common cause of your snake plant losing roots can be attributed to over watering the plant.

If you water too much or have poor drainage, the roots lack oxygen and this deteriorates them, causing all sorts of problems, including root rot.

Some signs that you might have an overwatered snake plant are as follows.

• falling leaves
• The leaves are turning yellow
• brown leaves or tips
• understory growth
• soft or mushy leaves
• Standing water on the ground

Above all, root rot is what should be of most concern to you, as this is likely the reason why your plant is now rootless.

If you notice a foul smell coming from the roots, or where they should be, it’s rotten.

Specifically for this issue, you can read my article on root rot in snake plants so you can back it up.

mold problem

Another cause of your snake plant losing roots could be caused by a fungal problem that has destroyed the roots.

Fungal problems are more likely to occur if the plants are in very humid conditions or if there has been too much moisture or water.

Therefore, it is very important to water properly and always use well-drained soil as a good practice and preventative measure.

Also be careful not to get the leaves wet when you water them, as that in itself can cause fungal problems.

If you only have a few roots instead of none, you can prune all the damaged roots and treat your snake plant with neem oil as it is a fairly effective fungicide.

Just be sure to cover the plant and soil with it and only do so in the shade until the neem has a chance to dry out, as it tends to scorch the leaves if exposed to strong light.

burn fertilizer

You may not have heard of it, but over-fertilizing your plants can lead to what is called fertilizer burn.

This is when excess salts build up in the soil, which can cause long-term root damage.

It’s even possible that fertilizer burn is the cause of your plant’s lack of roots, as the damage can get quite severe and cause it to completely fail and fall off.

It’s best to be on the safe side and use a well-balanced fertilizer with only 1/4 to 1/2 strength, as fertilizers can be quite harsh on plants.

If you have any roots left, you can prune the damaged roots and transplant them, or prune the damaged roots and flush the soil.

Can the snake plant take root again?

Although it is possible for a snake plant to develop new roots if there are pre-existing roots, having no roots makes this much more difficult.

Your best bet if you don’t have damaged roots is to spread some healthy leaves and grow a brand new snake plant!

What to do with a snake plant that has no roots

If your snake plant is generally rootless, it’s time to move on and propagate with healthy leaves.

First, select 1 or more healthy leaves near the base of the parent plant.

Then use sterile garden shears to cut the foliage.

Allow the cut leaf to dry and heal for several days.

Prepare a new container with fresh, well-drained soil.

Water the soil and place your new leaf cutting on the ground with the base lightly on the ground and the rest of the leaf snug on top.

Place the container in a spot with plenty of indirect light and you should see new roots forming on your snake plant within 3-4 weeks!