Potting and repotting houseplants are important for maintaining their health and promoting growth. Plants in containers rely entirely on their surroundings for nutrients, aeration, and space for root expansion. Over time, the potting medium degrades, and the roots fill the available volume. This restriction limits the plant’s ability to absorb water and minerals effectively. Using the proper technique ensures a smooth transition and minimizes stress on the plant.
Selecting the Proper Pot and Potting Medium
Choosing the correct container size prevents issues like waterlogging and root rot. For most houseplants, select a new pot only one size larger than the current one, typically increasing the diameter by 1 to 2 inches for smaller plants. Moving a plant to a container that is too large causes excess soil to retain moisture for extended periods. This can suffocate the roots and inhibit the plant’s establishment. Larger plants may tolerate a jump of 2 to 4 inches in diameter, but gradual sizing is preferred.
The container material also influences soil moisture; porous terracotta pots allow for faster water evaporation compared to non-porous plastic pots. Drainage holes are required regardless of the material to prevent water from pooling at the base and causing root damage. Selecting the correct potting medium involves matching the mix to the plant’s natural habitat needs. General indoor potting mixes typically contain organic matter like peat moss or coco coir, along with additives such as perlite or vermiculite to improve aeration and drainage. Succulents and cacti require a grittier mix, while epiphytes like orchids thrive in mixes containing large pieces of bark for air circulation.
The Step-by-Step Process of Repotting
Before beginning, gather all necessary materials, including the new pot, fresh potting medium, and a trowel. Slightly moisten the new potting mix beforehand so it is damp but not saturated; this assists in settling the soil around the roots. Place a small layer of the new medium at the bottom of the new pot. Ensure the plant’s crown—where the stem meets the roots—will sit at the same level as it did previously, about one to two inches below the new pot’s rim.
To remove the plant, turn the pot on its side, grip the plant gently at the base of the stem, and slide it out. If the plant is stuck, tap the sides of a plastic pot or run a dull knife around the inner edge to loosen the soil. Inspect the root ball once the plant is free; if the roots are tightly circling the perimeter, the plant is root-bound. Gently loosen the circling roots with your fingers. For severely bound plants, make three or four vertical cuts an inch deep into the side of the root mass with a clean knife.
This manipulation encourages the roots to grow outward into the new soil rather than continuing their circular pattern. Place the plant onto the base layer of soil in the new container, centering it carefully. Fill the space around the root ball with the fresh potting medium, using a trowel to push the soil down gently. Avoid compressing the soil too tightly, as this prevents necessary air exchange and drainage. Lightly tamping the soil surface is sufficient to secure the plant.
Immediate Care Following Potting
The plant will experience a period of adjustment known as transplant shock, caused by the disturbance to its root system. The first step after filling the pot is a thorough watering until water drains freely from the bottom holes. This “watering in” helps the new medium settle, eliminates large air pockets around the roots, and provides immediate hydration. Using room-temperature water is preferable to avoid shocking the sensitive roots.
Move the newly potted plant to a location that provides bright, indirect light for the first few days. Direct, intense sunlight can stress the plant, forcing it to lose moisture when its roots are temporarily less efficient at absorption. Resist the urge to apply fertilizer immediately after repotting. Fresh potting mix contains a sufficient supply of nutrients, and adding fertilizer can potentially burn the tender new roots as they begin to grow.