Knowing when and how to repot your plants can seem like a daunting task. When I first started with plants I didn’t think about repotting. It wasn’t something that crossed my mind when it came to the topic of plants.
Once I realized my plant was going to outgrow its pot at some point, I started to feel overwhelmed. I didn’t understand the timing of when to repot or where to start. However, I learned a lot of little things along the way by talking with other plant lovers.
Similar to my How To Water Your Plants post, I’ll break down when and how to repot your plants in a simple strategy. I say simple because once you read through it, you’ll quickly realize it’s not nearly as scary as it sounds. Some of this information will instantly become second nature.
When To Re-pot
Just as with watering and lighting requirements, repotting your plant can be catered to each specific variety of plant. However, am I really going to research, remember, and write down each re-potting requirement for every plant I have? No.
The general rule I follow is; If the roots are coming through the bottom, then it’s time for the next pot size up.
You’re able to see the roots coming through the bottom of the pot because they poke through the drainage hole. What is a drainage hole and why would you want one? Refer to How To Water Your Plants.
I like to wait for the roots to come through the bottom because some plant varieties like being root bound. There are also plant varieties that can produce blooms in this root-bound condition. My Peace Lilly usually produces blooms when it’s snug in the pot. It does not produce blooms when there’s too much room to grow or when it’s far too squished. But, right in the middle when it’s nice and snug, I’m able to see 3, 4, or even 5 blooms!
In most circumstances, you’ll only want to take the plant one pot size up from its current pot size. If you go too large, too quickly, then it will leave room for water to just sit in the soil. This can often lead to poor plant health or root rot.
You’ll usually go 1 maybe 2 inches larger than its current size. That’ll give your plant just enough room to stretch its roots and grow, without excess water sitting in the soil.
How To Re-Pot
Now it’s time to repot your plant! There are a few supplies you’ll want and a few tips to keep in mind while doing the repotting.
Supplies Needed:
New Pot – I prefer terracotta pots because they absorb some of the excess water. This material is also porous and allows the plant to breathe, giving you great air circulation. However, my number one tip for pots is to make sure you get a pot with a drainage hole!
Soil – The soil will depend on the type of plant you have. You want to make sure you get soil that’s light and allows for air circulation. Soils that ‘retain moisture,’ such as Moisture Mate and Miracle Grow, hold on to too much water. This will often lead to poor plant health, root rot, mold, and gnats. Cactus and succulents also require a specific cactus soil rather than a ‘normal’ house plant soil.
Water – I use a watering can and filtered or tap water. A watering can is an easier way to get the water right to the base of the plant and soil. However, at the end of the day, you’ll just need some water. Be sure to water your plant after repotting to get the new soil settled and air pockets released.
Optional Items:
Cup or Hand Shovel – Have something to scoop the soil if it’s a large bag or it’s towards the bottom of the bag. It just makes things a bit easier.
Gloves – This is a personal preference. Most of the time, I don’t use gloves. Some people don’t like the feeling of dirt or just don’t want to get dirty. Gloves can always come in handy!
Pruners – This is also optional. If you have a plant that has a lot of old leaves that need pruning or you’re going to propagate, etc… pruners are the best way to get a clean and precise cut.
The Process
Step 1 – You’ll first want to loosen the plant in the pot it’s already in. If it’s plastic, I usually do this by pressing on the sides of the pot. If it’s terracotta, metal, or you’re unable to press the sides in, get a shovel, fork, or tool to go around the inside rim of the pot. It also helps to pull from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
Step 2 – After the plant is out of the pot, you’ll want to loosen any roots that are root bound. This encourages the roots to grow outwards rather than continuing to grow in the tangled spiral they might be in.
Step 3 – (optional) – Depending on the variety of plants you have or if you want ‘extra drainage,’ you can add a drainage layer. This would be small rocks, pebbles, broken terracotta pieces, woodchips, etc… that you add as a thin layer before putting the soil and plant in.
Step 4 – Spread a small amount of soil into the pot before placing your plant in. With the roots loosened and ready, place the plant in the pot and center it where you would like. Then, slowly add soil along the sides, gently pressing (not packing) as you go.
Step 5 – Once the soil is added, you’ll want to water your plant. I like to tap the bottom of the pot to settle any loose dirt and air pockets. Then, I water the plant until water runs out of the bottom. This will settle the plant in its new home, get rid of air pockets, and promote the roots to grow outwards.
TIP: Fill the pot with the soil but leave 1-2 inches of a rim at the top. Then, when you water your plant, it doesn’t spill over the sides. You also don’t want to ‘suffocate’ the plant. When soil is filled to the very top, the plant has too much soil not leaving enough room for airflow. As well as the water running off the top.
Let’s Hear from You!
These guidelines have helped me with the variety of plants I’ve worked with. I find it to be an easy schedule to remember, considering the biggest tip is just waiting to see roots coming out of the bottom. It’s also a low-stress process with these simple strategies and tips.
Feel free to share below what exciting things you’ve learned in repotting your plants. If you have any questions please comment below as well, I’d love to help!
