Have you noticed your houseplants looking a little lackluster lately? It might be time to repot your plants! Knowing when to repot can be tricky, but with our handy guide, you’ll be able to spot the signs and give your indoor garden the TLC it deserves. Read on to learn about the clues that it’s time to repot your houseplants and how to do it properly.
Signs It’s Time to Repot Your Houseplants
1. Roots Growing Out of Drainage Holes
When you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes in your houseplants, it’s a clear indication that it’s time to repot them. This is a natural sign that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more space to thrive.
2. Wilting or Yellowing Leaves
Wilting or yellowing leaves on your houseplants can be a sign that it’s time to repot them. When a plant’s roots become overcrowded or lack sufficient nutrients, the leaves may turn yellow or wilt. Repotting your plant can provide it with the space and resources it needs to thrive.
3. Soil Drying Out Quickly
One of the signs that it’s time to repot your houseplants is when the soil dries out quickly. This can be indicative of the plant outgrowing its current pot and needing more space for its roots to spread and absorb water. Keeping an eye on the moisture levels in the soil can help determine when repotting is necessary.
4. Presence of Pests or Diseases
Another sign that it’s time to repot your houseplants is the presence of pests or diseases. If you notice any creepy crawlers or your plant seems to be struggling with a disease, it’s a good indication that your plant needs a new home.
5. Unpleasant Odor
If you notice a strong and unpleasant smell coming from your houseplant, it could be a sign that it needs to be repotted. This odor can be caused by stagnant water, rotting roots, or excessive buildup of fertilizer.
Steps to Repotting Houseplants
1. Choosing the Right Pot and Soil
Choosing the right pot and soil for your houseplants is essential for their growth and well-being. It’s important to consider the size of the pot relative to the plant and to use a suitable potting mix that meets the specific needs of your plants.
2. Gather Necessary Supplies
Gather all the required items, such as newly prepared soil, a digging tool, and any added components such as netting to cover the holes for water drainage or a layer of stones at the base to promote better drainage.
3. Loosen the Root Ball
Delicately tap or massage the edges of the present pot to relax the root mass. Take the plant out of the pot with caution, keeping a firm grip near the stem’s base to prevent harming the leaves.
4. Inspect and Trim Roots
Inspect the roots of the plant to identify any indications of harm, decay, or roots that grow in circles. Utilize sharp pruning shears to remove any lifeless or excessively lengthy roots. In the event of tightly circling roots, delicately tease them away to prompt outward growth of the roots.
5. Prepare the New Pot
Add a layer of new potting soil to the bottom of the new pot, making sure it’s even and has sufficient depth for the roots of the plant. Form a small hill in the middle to hold the plant’s base.
6. Position the Plant
Gently position the plant at the middle of the fresh pot, ensuring it is located at the right height. The root ball’s upper portion must be parallel or marginally below the pot’s edge.
7. Fill with Potting Mix
Use new potting soil to fill in the gaps around the roots, pressing it down lightly to remove any air pockets. Gradually add more soil, taking care to cover all areas between the roots.
8. Watering and fertilizing the plant
Watering and fertilizing your houseplants is crucial for their health and growth. Make sure to water your plants when the soil feels dry to the touch, and apply enough water until it runs out of the drainage holes. Fertilize your plants once every two weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer, or use slow-release or organic fertilizers for a more gradual feeding. Remember to adjust your watering and fertilizing routine based on the specific needs of your plants.
9. Post-Repotting Care
Put the plant in a place that matches its needs for light after it has been replanted. For some time, do not give it direct sunlight as this may cause the plant to become stressed.
