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How To Repot a Houseplant

How to repot a houseplant

 

All potted plants will eventually need to be repotted or have their soil replaced. For guidance on timing, check out the article When is the Right Time to Repot a Houseplant.

Tools Needed:

  • Potting mix (high-quality soil for houseplants)
  • Plant
  • New pot with good drainage (if needed)
  • Access to water
  • Gloves
  • A sense of humor

  1. Set Up: Place your new pot on a suitable work surface. Fill the bottom few inches with fresh potting mix, ensuring it's a high-quality blend designed for houseplants.

    Please keep in mind that different plants have different soil needs. Most tropical plants need a good quality potting mix made for houseplants but plants like palms and cactus and succulents need a soil mix that drains better so look for a mix made for cactus, succulents, citrus, and palms.

  2. Remove the Plant: Note the soil level on the plant in its current pot; you'll want it at the same depth in the new pot. Planting more deeply or shallow can cause health issues. Remove the plant from its old container. If it's in a plastic grower pot, squeeze the sides gently to loosen the roots, then tip the pot and carefully slide the plant into your other hand. Gently loosen the old soil from the root base and allow it to fall away.

  3. Replant: Position the plant in the new pot on top of the few inches of fresh soil you just placed. Fill in around the plant's roots with additional potting mix. Lightly tamp down the soil—don’t pack it tightly, as you want the soil to remain loose for root growth.

  4. Adjust Soil Level: Add soil until the plant is at the same depth as it was in the original pot. Water the plant with room temperature water, pouring slowly over the entire surface. Watch for water draining from the base of the pot; this indicates proper drainage.

  5. Repeat Watering: Water the plant two or three times to ensure the soil is fully hydrated from top to bottom. You may notice the soil level dropping as it settles; add more soil as needed and water again to ensure the plant is well-settled. 

    Re-watering is helpful to get air pockets out of the soil but it is crucial that the plant/pot be allowed to fully drain away any excess.

Here is more information about repotting:

http://www.costafarms.com/get-growing/news/repotting-houseplants

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRCiKuzwG_0