If the houseplants you take pride in caring for look tired and saggy, now is the perfect time to repot them. Even healthy plants outgrow their homes or need new ones. A new container that is a couple of inches wider gives houseplants like red anthurium, pothos, and others the space for lush growth through care and regular feeding. This guide takes you through the steps of how to repot plants, choose good pots, and select the best potting soil for the task.
How to Tell if Your Plant Needs to Be Repotted
The potting soil your houseplants grow in may cease over time to provide the conditions your plant needs to survive. As a guideline, if your houseplants show any of the following symptoms, it’s time to repot:
- Tightly coiled roots protruding from the bottom of the pot.
- Dry soil and lack of moisture retention; water drains out quickly.
- A top-heavy plant that leans over.
- Drooping and sagging leaves that easily brown or just fall off.
Select a Pot
Choosing the right pot for your plant is crucial for its health and growth.
Steps:
- Size: Select a pot that’s 1 to 2 inches larger than the existing one. Ensure it has a drainage hole at the bottom.
- Material:
- Larger Pots: Suitable for vigorously growing plants, such as bamboo or trees, which need ample room for their roots.
- Succulent Pots: Made of porous materials like terracotta, ideal for plants that don’t require much water.
- Herb and Vegetable Pots: Should have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
How to Remove Your Plant
Properly removing the plant from its current pot minimizes stress and damage.
Steps:
- Preparation: Water your plant well a few days before repotting to hydrate it and make removal easier.
- Removal:
- Tilt the plant gently, grasp near the base, and give a firm tug.
- If the plant won’t budge, water it thoroughly and try again.
Scrape Off Old Soil
Removing old soil helps to refresh the plant’s growing medium.
Steps:
- Scraping: Use a garden knife to lightly scrape away old soil from the roots, being careful not to damage them.
Make Cuts to the Root System
Making small cuts in the roots can promote better growth.
Steps:
- Cutting: Use a serrated knife or gardening shears to make a few tiny cuts at the bottom of the root system. This allows for better oxygen flow.
- Dividing: Some plants, like sansevieria or echeveria, can be divided by looking for natural splits at the roots and repotting them separately.
Select Your Potting Soil
Choosing the right potting soil is key to a healthy plant.
Types:
- Regular Potting Soil: Suitable for most houseplants, provides essential nutrients.
- Organic Potting Soil: Contains natural components like manure and compost, ideal for plants needing extra care.
- Specialized Potting Mix: For specific plants like orchids or African violets.
- Sand-Mixed Soil: For succulents and cacti, ensures good drainage.
Bring On the New
Placing the plant in its new pot and adding soil properly ensures a good start.
Steps:
- Preparation: Place a used dryer sheet over the drainage hole to prevent soil loss.
- Planting: Add a few scoops of fresh potting soil, place the plant inside, and continue adding soil until just below the rim.
Water Thoroughly
Proper watering after repotting helps the plant settle in its new pot.
Steps:
- Watering: Use a watering can to soak the plant. Ensure excess water can escape through drainage holes.
- Monitoring: Keep an eye on the plant. If leaves turn yellow, reduce watering.
Avoid Direct Sun
Protecting the plant from direct sunlight helps it adjust to the new pot.
Steps:
- Placement: Keep the repotted plant out of direct sunlight for a day or two to several weeks until the roots take hold.
Conclusion
Repotting your plants gives them room to grow and fresh soil filled with nutrients. Follow these steps to ensure your plants thrive in their new homes. Use The Home Depot Mobile App to find the right potting soil mix and planters for your needs. Happy gardening!
