Succulents are popular houseplants known for their visual appeal and minimal upkeep. Like all container plants, they eventually need repotting to continue healthy growth. Repotting provides fresh nutrients and more physical space, ensuring the plant’s long-term well-being. This process requires specific steps to protect the delicate root system and help the succulent establish itself successfully in its new container.
Identifying the Need for Repotting
Several visual and functional cues indicate when a succulent is ready for a new pot, typically once every one to two years. The most obvious sign is when roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes, suggesting the plant is root-bound and has exhausted its current container space. Another indicator is when the plant’s size causes it to become top-heavy, making the entire pot prone to tipping over.
You may also notice the soil drying out much faster than it used to, or that water runs straight through the pot without being absorbed. This is often because the dense root ball has completely displaced the soil, hindering the plant’s ability to take up moisture. Repotting is best done during the succulent’s active growing season, which is usually in spring or early summer, allowing the plant to quickly recover.
Gathering Necessary Supplies
The new container must have a functional drainage hole to prevent waterlogging, which causes root rot in these drought-tolerant plants. Terracotta pots are a popular choice because their porous nature helps wick away excess moisture from the soil.
The new pot should only be slightly larger than the old one, increasing the diameter by one to two inches at most. Succulents prefer to be snug; a pot that is too large retains excessive moisture in the soil. Use a specialized succulent and cactus soil mix, which is formulated to be gritty and fast-draining, typically incorporating aggregates like perlite or pumice for aeration.
Step-by-Step Repotting Procedure
Begin the process by gently removing the succulent from its current pot, which is easiest when the soil is completely dry. Turn the pot on its side, hold the plant by the base of the stem, and tap the container to help loosen the root ball. If the plant is resistant, a slender tool can be used to loosen the soil around the inner edge of the container.
Once removed, gently brush or knock off the majority of the old soil to expose the root system. Inspect the roots for signs of disease or damage, such as black or mushy sections, and trim them away with clean shears. Center the plant in the new container over a small layer of fresh soil.
Fill the space around the roots with the new, gritty soil mix, making sure the entire root structure is covered. Lightly pat the soil down around the plant to secure it in place, eliminating any large air pockets. Ensure that the lowest leaves are positioned completely above the soil line, as burying them can trap moisture and cause the leaves to rot.
Initial Care After Repotting
Unlike most other houseplants, do not water the succulent immediately after placing it in the new container. The roots may sustain small tears during the removal process, and watering too soon can introduce pathogens to these open areas, leading to root rot.
Allow a waiting period of approximately three to seven days before you provide the first thorough watering. This allows the root tissue time to dry and heal, or “callus over,” minimizing the risk of infection.
Place the newly potted succulent in a location that receives bright, indirect light, even if it is accustomed to direct sun. The plant’s ability to handle intense sunlight is temporarily reduced while the roots establish themselves. Monitor the plant for signs of stress, such as shriveled or discolored leaves, during the first few weeks. Avoid fertilizing for at least four to six weeks, as the fresh soil provides ample nutrients and fertilizer can burn recovering roots.