Repotting isn’t just about putting your plant into a bigger pot—it refreshes soil, gives roots more room, and prevents root rot. Done properly, it can extend the life of your plant for years.
1. Know When to Repot
Signs your plant needs a new pot:
* Roots are growing out of the drainage holes.
* Water runs straight through the pot without soaking in.
* Soil looks compacted or smells sour.
* The plant is top-heavy or growth has slowed down.
* It’s been 1–2 years since the last repotting.
2. Gather Materials
* A new pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter than the old one, with drainage holes).
* Fresh potting mix (choose based on plant type: cactus mix, orchid bark, or all-purpose).
* Small trowel or spoon.
* Gloves (optional, for prickly plants).
* Watering can.
* Newspaper or drop cloth to catch soil.
3. Prepare the Plant
1. Water the plant lightly a day before. This makes roots easier to slide out.
2. Lay down newspaper or place the plant outside to avoid mess.
4. Remove the Plant from Its Pot
* Gently tip the pot on its side.
* Hold the plant at the base and carefully pull.
* Tap or squeeze the pot sides if stuck.
* For stubborn plants, run a butter knife around the inside edge to loosen.
5. Check and Prune the Roots
* Shake off old soil.
* Trim away dead, mushy, or circling roots with clean scissors.
* Healthy roots look firm and white/light brown.
6. Prepare the New Pot
* Place a layer of fresh soil at the bottom.
* If the pot is large, you can add a mesh screen over the drainage hole to keep soil from leaking out.
7. Position the Plant
* Set the plant in the center of the new pot.
* Adjust soil underneath so the base of the plant sits about 1 inch below the rim (for watering space).
8. Fill with Soil
* Add potting mix around the sides.
* Gently press down to remove air pockets, but don’t compact too tightly.
* Leave space at the top for watering.
9. Water Thoroughly
* Give the plant a good soak until water drains out the bottom.
* This settles the soil around the roots.
10. Aftercare
* Place the plant back in its usual spot (unless it needs more/less light).
* Avoid fertilizing for 4–6 weeks; fresh soil has nutrients already.
* Watch for signs of transplant shock (drooping leaves). Usually, the plant recovers in a week or two.
✅ **Summary:**
Choose the right time, gently remove the plant, trim roots, refresh the soil, place it in a slightly bigger pot, water well, and let it settle.
