Repotting plants is a normal and healthy practice that you should be doing as your plants need it. The frequency and reason for repotting will depend on several factors like the type of plant, how fast it grows, soil health, and others.
Some reasons for repotting are:
- Plant has outgrown the current pot. You may notice that the roots are growing out the bottom of the pot or pushing the plant up and out of the pot. You may also notice that the plant has stopped growing as expected.
- You just bought the plant and should change the soil and pot to give the best growing chance to the new member in your family.
- Current soil is infested with harmful bugs. The current pot may still be perfect for your plant, but if the soil is unhealthy, so will your plant. Replace it with fresh potting mix.
- Simply changing the soil to improve the plants quality of life, while keeping it in the same pot. Using fresh growing medium is a treat for your plants!
- You bought the most beautiful and perfect pot that you've ever seen (since last week, of course) and will be transplanting one of your plants into it.
All of these are good reasons to repot your plants. Continue reading below to learn which steps to take for the perfect repottal (made up word, proud of it!)
How to repot your plants
1. Pull out the plant from its current pot
Hold the plant gently by the stems, close to the base, and give it a few little tugs or tap the bottom of the pot until the plant slides out. If you feel the roots breaking, STOP! The entire root ball should slide out together.
2. Loosen the soil around the roots
Gently massage the root ball to loosen the roots and remove about one third to half of the potting mix surrounding the roots. This will ensure there is enough space for fresh mix giving your plant the best chance to smoothly adapt to the changes and overcome root disturbance. Once the roots are loose, you can prune off any extra long roots, but make sure to leave the thicker roots at the base of the plant. If you notice that your plant's roots are growing in tight circles around the root ball – gently unbind the roots and trim them.
3. Add a layer of new potting mix to the bottom of the pot
Pour a layer of fresh potting soil into the pot and make sure to remove any air pockets, but don't pack it down too tight. Note: if the new pot does not have drainage holes, add a layer of coco chips or rocks to the very bottom of the pot before adding the first layer of potting mix. By doing this, you will create a space for extra water to pool into and will keep it away from the plant’s roots.
4. Reinsert the plant and add more potting mix to fill the pot
Place the plant on top of the fresh layer of mix in the new pot, making sure it's centered, then add potting mix around the plant until it is filled. Make sure it is evenly filled, but don't pack it down too tight, as you want the roots to breathe and easily grow.
5. Add mulch
Depending on where your plant is located in your home, it may benefit from mulching. This prevents the soil from drying out too quickly, helps to reduce fungus gnats, help to prevent weeds, and also gives it a beautiful finish. We recommend mulching with coco chips.
6. Water your newly repotted plant
Water thoroughly to ensure the new mix settles down properly and to give your plant a nice cool drink.
When is the best time to repot plants?
Spring time! Plants are getting ready for new growth and by repotting before that you will be giving your plant the best chance to thrive and live its best life.
Do you need to fertilize newly repotted plants?
It depends. It is best to let the plant settle down into her new home for a few weeks before adding chemical fertilizers. However, it is ok to add a dose of natural nutrients, like worm castings, as there is no risk of over-fertilizing and burning your plant.
What is the best potting mix for repotting plants?
We recommend a natural growing medium packed with nutrients to ensure the best transition for your plants. If you prefer to add your own nutrients or fertilizers, try out this 100% coco coir for gardening.
HAPPY REPOTTING!