Healthy houseplants rely on strong root systems and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Yet over time, soil degrades, roots become bound, and growth slows. This guide covers when to repot, how to choose pots and potting mix, step-by-step removal and replanting procedures, common mistakes to avoid, and post-repotting care.
When Is It Time to Repot?
Look for these clear signs that your plant needs fresh space:
- Roots visibly emerging: from drainage holes or circling inside the pot
- Soil dries out unusually fast: As the soil has degraded, it requires more frequent watering
- Growth has stalled: despite all other care needs being satisfied
- Top-heavy or unstable plant: due to the plant overgrowing its container
- Seasonal timing: Ideally, you should repot during spring or early summer so you catch the start of the plant’s growing phase
Choosing the Right Pot & Soil
Select the best pot:
- Size up: by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) wider in diameter, too large leads to excessive moisture retention and root rot
- Ensure proper drainage holes: decorative pots without holes are not suitable as they limit airflow and trap water
- Consider pot material: terracotta can promote further airflow and drainage due to its porous nature. However, this may not be needed for certain plants.
Choose the right soil:
- Use a high-quality, fresh potting mix: A good general-purpose DIY soil mix is 2 parts coco coir, 1 part perlite, 1 part compost.
- For tropical foliage (e.g., philodendron, monsteras): consider a DIY blend with peat moss, orchid bark, perlite, and worm castings for a nutritional boost.
- For succulents or cacti: use gritty mixes with sand, pumice, or coarse perlite for better drainage.
Step‑by‑Step Repotting Procedure
- Water the plant lightly a day before: to ease removal and reduce stress
- Cover your workspace: with a newspaper or a tarp
- Gather tools: new pot, fresh soil, sterilised shears, a knife or root hook and gloves
- Gently remove the plant: loosen the root ball with a knife or by tapping the pot’s sides, slide it out sideways or upside‑down
- Inspect and untangle roots: If root‑bound, tease out roots with fingers or trim up to one‐third. Only remove dead roots or roots circling excessively
- Initial layer: Place a layer of fresh soil at the pot’s base, position the plant centrally, and maintain the original planting depth.
- Backfill around roots: Fill the pot with soil gently, don’t compact, tap the pot to remove air pockets
- Water thoroughly: until it drains through holes, helping soil settle. Empty saucer if present to avoid waterlogging.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Repotting
- Oversizing the pot: Using too much soil versus the root system can result in overwatering and eventually lead to root rot.
- Skipping drainage holes: Leads to water stagnation and root death.
- Disturbing roots too aggressively: Avoid breaking the root ball fully or over-pruning beyond dead or circling roots. This reduces the plant’s nutrient uptake, leading to a longer recovery.
- Repotting at the wrong time: Avoid dormancy and flowering periods; repotting in Spring at the start of the growing period is always the best bet.
- Using poor or unsuitable soil: Wrong texture or composition can suffocate roots or retain too much moisture. Avoid garden soil at all costs!
Aftercare & Recovery
- Position in bright, indirect light: Avoid direct sun for 2–3 days post-repot to prevent shock.
- Pause fertilising: for at least a month or until you see new growth, especially after using nutrient-rich fresh soil.
- Monitor watering carefully: let the soil dry more than usual before watering again to prevent rot.
- After initial recovery: resume regular care and inspect roots occasionally for compacting or overgrowth. Most plants bounce back within a few weeks.
Repotting Frequency by Plant Type
I prefer to look for signs that my plants need repotting, such as visible roots, soil degradation or stunting growth. Although you can opt for a consistent repotting schedule using the table below as a guide:
| Plant Type | Repotting Frequency |
|---|---|
| Fast-growing (e.g., Pothos, Spider plant) | Every 12-18 months |
| Moderate growers (e.g., Ficus, Dracaena) | Every 18-24 months |
| Slow growers (e.g., Succulents, Snake plant) | Every 2-5 years |
| Mature or flowering-loved species that prefer slight root binding | Repot minimally, refresh soil only |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time of year to repot indoor plants?
A: The best time to repot indoor plants is early spring to early summer, during their active growing season. Avoid repotting during winter or while the plant is flowering to minimise transplant shock.
Q: Should I water my plant before or after repotting?
A: It’s best to lightly water your plant 1 day before repotting. This softens the root ball and makes removal easier. After repotting, water thoroughly to help the soil settle and support recovery.
Q: How much bigger should a pot be when repotting?
A: Choose a new pot that’s 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) wider in diameter than the current one. Going too large can lead to overwatering and root rot because of excess soil moisture.
Q: Why is my plant drooping after repotting?
A: Drooping after repotting is usually due to transplant shock, overwatering, or root disturbance. Place the plant in indirect light, avoid fertilising for a few weeks, and let it acclimate.
Q: How long does it take for a plant to recover after repotting?
Most houseplants take 1 to 4 weeks to recover. New leaf growth and upright posture are good signs. Recovery time varies by species, age, and the extent of root pruning.