Spring has sprung and now is a great time to repot your house plants!
How to Transplant Houseplants
What You’ll Need:
- A new pot (1–2 inches wider than the current one)
- Fresh potting soil (specific to your plant type if possible)
- Gloves (optional but helpful)
- Trowel or spoon
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Choose the Right Time
- Best time: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
- Signs it needs repotting:
- Roots growing out the bottom
- Wilting even when watered
- Stunted growth or soil drying super fast
2. Prep the New Pot
- Make sure it has drainage holes.
- Add a layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom.
3. Remove the Plant Gently
- Water it lightly first to loosen soil.
- Turn the pot sideways and gently tug the plant out by the base.
- If it’s stuck, squeeze or tap the sides of the pot — no yanking!
4. Loosen the Roots
- Gently tease apart circling or tightly packed roots with your fingers.
- Trim off any dead or mushy roots with clean scissors.
5. Replant
- Center the plant in the new pot at the same depth it was before.
- Fill around it with fresh potting mix, pressing lightly to eliminate air pockets.
- Leave about 1 inch of space at the top for watering.
6. Water It In
- Give it a good, even watering to settle the soil.
- Let excess drain out — don’t let it sit in water.
7. Post-Transplant TLC
- Keep it in indirect light for a few days to recover.
- Hold off on fertilizer for 2–4 weeks.
- Watch for signs of stress (like drooping or yellowing), but some adjustment is normal.
Bonus Tips:
- For succulents or cacti: use cactus mix, and don’t water right away — wait a few days.
- For large plants: you can root prune and return to the same pot if you want to limit size.
Don’t feel like going through the hassle of transplanting yourself?
Contact me today to schedule your transplant!
Until next time, my friend.
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