When and How To Repot Plants

Are you unsure of when to give your beloved plants a new home? In this article, we're going to teach you how to spot the telltale signs of when to repot, the best time of year to do it, and how to repot like a pro. And that's not all! We'll also share tips on selecting the perfect pot! So, grab your gardening gloves, and let's get started on giving your plants the upgrade they deserve!

Signs that It's Time to Repot Your Plants

Overgrown Roots

If you notice that your plant's roots are growing out of the pot's drainage holes or circling around the edge of the pot, it's a clear indication that your plant is root-bound and needs more space to grow (Kelley, 2023).

Lack of Nutrients

The soil in your plant's pot can become depleted, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and a general lack of vigor. Repotting your plant in fresh soil can provide it with the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Compacted Soil 

Over time, the soil in your plant's pot can become compacted, making it harder for your plant's roots to absorb water and nutrients. If you notice that water is running straight through the soil without being absorbed, it's time to repot your plant in fresh soil.

Best Time to Repot Your Plants

Ideal Growth Stage

It's best to repot your plants during their growing season. For most plants, this is in the spring and late winter. During this time, your plant is actively growing, which means it's better able to adjust to its new environment and recover from any root damage that may occur during the repotting process.

You want to repot your plant when it's just starting to outgrow its current pot. If you wait too long, your plant may become root-bound, making it harder to transplant without damaging its roots. On the other hand, if you repot your plant too soon, you may be wasting time and resources, as your plant hasn't yet fully utilized its current pot's space.

Weather Conditions

If you live in a region with extreme temperatures, it's best to avoid repotting your plants during the hottest or coldest months of the year. This is because extreme temperatures can put extra stress on your plant, making it harder for it to recover from the repotting process.

Instead, aim to repot your plants during mild weather conditions when the temperature is more moderate. This will give your plant the best chance of adapting to its new environment and recovering from any root damage that may occur during the repotting process.

How to Repot Your Plants

1. Preparing the new pot

Choose a pot that's slightly larger, around 1-2 inches bigger, than your plant's current pot to give it enough room to grow. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to drain out and prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.

2. Removing the plant from the old pot

Start by gently removing your plant from its current pot, being careful not to damage its roots. If your plant is root-bound, you may need to gently tease apart the roots to encourage them to grow in their new pot.

3. Adding fresh soil

Add a layer of fresh soil to the bottom of your new pot, and then carefully place your plant in the pot. Add more soil around the sides, gently pressing it down to remove any air pockets. Leave a small gap between the soil level and the top of the pot to allow for watering.

Different plants require different types of soil, so make sure you choose the right soil mix for your specific plant. A good general rule of thumb is to use a well-draining soil mix that contains a mix of organic and inorganic materials.

4. Watering the plant

Water your newly repotted plant thoroughly, and place it in a location that gets the appropriate amount of light for your specific plant.

Choosing the Right Pot for Your Plants

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a pot:

Size

A pot that's too small will restrict the growth of your plant's roots, while a pot that's too large can lead to overwatering and root rot. As a general rule of thumb, choose a pot that's 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot.

Drainage

Good drainage is essential for your plant's health. Choose a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape and prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. If your chosen pot doesn't have drainage holes, you can drill them yourself or use a pot with a removable saucer to catch excess water.

Pot Material

• Stone pots, made from materials like granite, marble, or sandstone, are durable and long-lasting, making them great for outdoor use. They also provide insulation to the soil, helping to regulate the temperature around the roots of the plant.
• Recycled pots made from materials like wood, plastic, or stone are an environmentally-friendly option. They are usually cheaper than other types of pots, and some people enjoy the unique look of recycled pots, which can add an interesting touch to any garden. Not to mention that they are lightweight and long-lasting!
• Ceramic pots are another popular option. They are known for holding onto moisture, making them ideal for plants that require consistent watering. However, ceramic pots are also more delicate than other materials and can break more easily.
• Terracotta pots are made from clay and are known for their porous nature, allowing for good drainage and airflow. They are a popular choice for outdoor use, as they are sturdy and can withstand the elements. However, they can also be prone to cracking if exposed to extreme temperatures.

Final Thoughts

Caring for plants is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that can bring joy and tranquility to your life. Repotting your plants is an essential task to ensure their health and well-being.

With the tips in this article, you can confidently repot your plants and provide them with the optimal growing conditions they need to thrive. Happy gardening!

References

Kelley, K. (2023). Repotting houseplants. PennState Extension. https://extension.psu.edu/repotting-houseplants