Repotting Plants: When and Why
Repotting serves multiple purposes: providing fresh nutrients, preventing root binding, and accommodating growth. The Plant Nursery recommends repotting based on plant needs rather than calendar schedules.
When to Repot
Repot when roots circle the pot, emerge from drainage holes, or when water drains through very quickly because roots displace soil. Most houseplants need repotting every 18-24 months. Fast-growing plants may need annual repotting. Slow-growing plants like succulents or snake plants can remain in the same pot for several years. Spring is ideal because plants enter active growth and recover faster.
Choosing the Right Pot Size
Move up only 2-5 cm in diameter when repotting. Oversized pots hold excess soil that stays wet, increasing root rot risk. The goal is accommodating root growth, not anticipating future size. Plants in appropriately sized pots develop healthier root systems than plants in oversized containers.
Selecting Appropriate Soil
Use potting mix formulated for your plant type. Standard houseplants use general-purpose potting mix. Cacti and succulents need fast-draining cactus mix. Orchids require bark-based orchid mix. Never use garden soil indoors - it compacts, drains poorly, and may contain pests. Quality potting mix provides drainage, aeration, and water retention balance.
Repotting Process Step by Step
Water the plant 1-2 days before repotting to minimize stress. Remove the plant by tipping the pot and supporting the base of the plant. Gently loosen circling roots and remove old soil from the root ball's exterior. Place fresh soil in the new pot, position the plant at the same depth as before, and fill around the sides with more soil. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Post-Repotting Care
Keep newly repotted plants out of direct sun for 1-2 weeks to reduce stress. Maintain consistent moisture but don't overwater - roots need time to re-establish. Avoid fertilizing for 4-6 weeks as fresh potting mix contains nutrients. Some leaf drop or temporary wilting is normal as plants adjust to new soil. Most plants recover within 2-3 weeks.
When Not to Repot
Avoid repotting during winter dormancy when plants aren't actively growing. Don't repot flowering plants while blooming - wait until after flowers fade. Never repot stressed or diseased plants until they stabilize. If a plant is thriving in its current pot, don't repot just because time has passed. Only repot when the plant demonstrates need.
Practical Tips
- •Lay down newspaper or plastic sheeting to contain soil mess
- •Have all materials ready before removing the plant from its pot
- •Prune any dead or damaged roots during repotting
- •Label plants if repotting multiple at once to avoid confusion
- •Reuse old pots after washing with soap and water to prevent disease transfer
From The Plant Nursery
Many customers repot too frequently because they assume bigger pots mean bigger plants. We've seen more problems from overpotting than from leaving plants slightly root-bound. When in doubt, wait another season and observe how the plant responds.