Repotting: When & How to Give Your Plant a New Home
Repotting seems daunting but it's essential for plant health. Learn to recognize when it's needed and how to do it right.
Signs Your Plant Needs Repotting
Roots growing out of drainage holes
Definitely timeRoots circling on soil surface
Time to repotWater runs straight through pot
Time to repotPlant wilts quickly between waterings
Likely rootboundStunted growth despite good care
Check rootsSoil dries out extremely fast
More roots than soilPlant is top-heavy and tips over
Needs larger baseIt's been 2+ years in same pot
Time to refresh soilStep-by-Step Repotting Guide
Choose the right time
Spring or early summer is ideal when plants are actively growing. Avoid repotting in winter unless necessary.
Select a new pot
Go 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Make sure it has drainage holes. Too large = excess soil = overwatering risk.
Prepare fresh soil
Use appropriate potting mix for your plant type. Add perlite if you need better drainage.
Water the day before
Moist soil slides out easier and causes less root stress than bone-dry soil.
Remove from old pot
Squeeze plastic pots or run a knife around edges. Turn upside down and support the plant. Gently pull out.
Inspect and loosen roots
Gently tease apart circling roots. Trim any dead, mushy, or excessively long roots with clean scissors.
Add soil to new pot
Put a layer of soil in the bottom. Place plant so the crown sits at the same level as before.
Fill around the rootball
Add soil around the sides, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets. Don't bury the stem deeper than before.
Water thoroughly
Give a good drink to settle the soil. Water may drain quickly the first time as soil settles.
Provide aftercare
Keep in bright indirect light, avoid direct sun for a week. Don't fertilize for 2-4 weeks.
Common Repotting Mistakes
Pot too large
Problem: Excess soil stays wet, leading to root rot
Instead: Only go up 1-2 inches in diameter
Burying stem too deep
Problem: Can cause stem rot at soil line
Instead: Keep crown at same level as before
Repotting at wrong time
Problem: Plant struggles in dormant period
Instead: Repot in spring/summer when actively growing
Fertilizing immediately
Problem: Burns stressed roots
Instead: Wait 2-4 weeks before fertilizing
Putting in direct sun after
Problem: Added stress on recovering plant
Instead: Indirect light for at least a week
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I repot my plants?
Most houseplants need repotting every 1-2 years. Fast growers may need it annually, while slow growers can go 2-3 years. Watch for signs of being rootbound rather than repotting on a strict schedule.
Can I repot a plant that's flowering?
It's best to wait until after flowering. Repotting during bloom can stress the plant and cause flowers to drop. If you must repot, expect to lose the current blooms.
Should I break up the root ball?
Gently loosen circling roots so they grow outward in the new pot. Don't tear or break roots aggressively. For severely rootbound plants, make a few vertical cuts to encourage new root growth.
Why is my plant droopy after repotting?
Transplant shock is normal. The plant is adjusting to its new environment and root disturbance. Keep soil lightly moist, provide indirect light, and give it 1-2 weeks to recover. Avoid the urge to overwater.
Track Your Plant Care
BotanAI reminds you when plants are due for repotting based on their growth.
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