Unlock the secrets to thriving sansevieria in your home
Sansevieria, also known as "mother-in-law's tongue," is a popular and beautiful houseplant. Its resilience makes it a favorable choice for home cultivation. See how to care for and propagate sansevieria simply and effectively.
Sansevieria, frequently found in our homes, is also called "mother-in-law's tongue." This extremely hardy plant originates from West Africa, where conditions are harsh for other plants. This characteristic makes it ideal for those who appreciate easy-care plants.
The history of sansevieria as a houseplant dates back many centuries. The first specimens arrived in Europe thanks to the Italian aristocrat Raimondo de Sango, who, fascinated by their beauty, brought them to Naples. Since then, sansevieria has been a consistent presence in European homes, adding a touch of the exotic to interiors.
How to propagate sansevieria from leaves?
The first step is to cut a leaf from the parent plant. This should be done with a sharp knife or scissors that have been disinfected beforehand. Then, cut the leaf into smaller pieces (about 2-3 inches) and arrange them according to polarity. What does this mean? Polarity means that roots will only develop from their morphologically lower part. Therefore, when placing the cut leaf pieces, we must remember or mark where the "top" and "bottom" are. Otherwise, the plant will not produce new roots. The next step is to prepare a container with water, a jar or a cup. Place the prepared sansevieria leaves in the container. It's a good idea to attach them to the edge of the container to prevent the leaf from being completely submerged in water and rotting. The plant should root in about 3 weeks. At that point, we transplant it into pots.
How to propagate sansevieria from rhizome?
Sansevieria can also be propagated from the rhizome. How do you do it? First, gently remove the plant from the pot, loosen the soil, and clean the roots. Then, divide the plant into smaller parts. If necessary, use a knife to separate the sansevieria. Place the prepared seedlings in separate pots and water them generously.
How to cultivate sansevieria?
Cultivating sansevieria is extremely simple, making it ideal for people just starting their journey with plants. The key to success is providing the right lighting conditions. Sansevieria thrives in full sun but grows well in partial shade and less lit places. Thanks to this adaptability, we can place it practically in any corner of our home and enjoy its presence.
