How to Re-pot a Houseplant

How to Re-pot a Houseplant

Houseplants are more than just decorations, they’re living, breathing pals that bring joy, energy, and beauty to your home.

Whether you’re caring for a Snake Plant, a lush Money Tree, or a lively Spider Plant, there comes a time when they need a fresh start. Re-potting might sound intimidating, but with the right approach, it’s a fun and rewarding way to keep your leafy friends happy.

When to Re-pot Your Houseplant

Plants don’t text us when they’re ready to move, but they drop plenty of hints. Here’s how to know when it’s time:

  1. Roots are escaping - If you see roots poking through the drainage holes or circling around the soil’s surface, they’re crying for more room

  2. Soil dries up quickly -  If you’re watering constantly and the soil stays bone dry, your plant might be outgrowing its pot

  3. Growth has stalled - If your once-lush plant seems stunted or keeps tipping over, its current pot could be too snug

  4. It’s been ages - Even if all seems well, most houseplants benefit from new soil every 2–3 years to replenish nutrients

If you spot one (or all) of these signs, it’s time to grab a fresh pot and give your leafy buddy a new lease on life!

Pro tip: Some bathroom plants, like String of Hearts or the Boston Fern, often grow slower due to lower light and humidity levels, so they may not need re-potting as often.

Step-by-Step Guide to Re-potting Your Houseplant

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before diving in, make sure you have:

  • A new pot (1-2 inches larger than the current one, with drainage holes)

  • Fresh potting soil, suitable for your plant (e.g., cactus mix, orchid bark, or general indoor plant soil)

  • Gardening gloves (optional, but handy if you’re working with spiky or sappy plants)

  • A trowel or spoon for scooping soil

  • A watering can or spray bottle

2. Pick the Right Time

Most houseplants, including favourites like the Money Tree and Snake Plant, thrive best when re-potted during spring or early summer. These are their active growing months, making it easier for them to adjust. Avoid re-potting during winter, when plants are dormant and less resilient. Sudden changes in cooler months can cause plants to shock, and can even lead to a plant dying.

3. Prep the New Pot

Start by adding a layer of fresh potting soil to the bottom of the new pot. For pots with large drainage holes, line them with a piece of mesh or a coffee filter to keep soil from escaping while still allowing water to drain.

4. Remove Your Plant from Its Old Pot

Time to free your plant! Gently tilt the pot and support the base of the plant. Tap or squeeze the sides of the pot to loosen the soil. For stubborn plants, carefully use a butter knife to separate the soil from the edges. Never pull on the stems, they’re delicate! For incredibly root bound plants, the pot may need to be cut away with large scissors.

5. Inspect and Prune the Roots

Shake off excess soil and take a close look at the roots. Healthy roots are white or light brown and firm. Trim away any black, mushy, or tangled roots with clean scissors. This step is especially important for plants like the spider plant, which can grow thick, tangled root systems.

6. Position Your Plant in the New Pot

Place the plant in the centre of its new pot, spreading the roots slightly. Make sure the top of the root ball sits about an inch below the rim to leave room for watering.

7. Fill It Up

Add soil around the sides, lightly pressing it down to eliminate air pockets. Don’t pack it too tightly; roots need room to breathe! Keep going until the soil is level with the top of the root ball.

8. Water Thoroughly

Give your plant a generous drink to help the soil settle and hydrate the roots. Be sure water drains freely from the bottom of the pot, no one likes soggy roots.

9. Find the Perfect Spot

Place your freshly re-potted friend back in its usual spot. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days, as it might be a bit stressed from the move.


Pro Tips for Re-potting Success

  • Size matters - Don’t go too big with the new pot; excess soil can stay wet for too long and lead to root rot

  • Keep it clean - Wash pots and tools before use to prevent spreading pests or diseases

  • Add a splash of style - Decorative pots without drainage holes work well as outer covers, just keep the functional pot inside!

Why Re-potting Feels So Good (for You and Your Plant)

Think of re-potting as redecorating your plant’s living room. It’s not just about giving them more space, it’s about refreshing their world. Your plant will thank you with healthier growth, vibrant leaves, and maybe even flowers!

So grab your gloves, crank up some tunes, and embrace the joy of gardening indoors. Your plants will love their new homes, and you’ll love watching them thrive! 🌱

Grow your plant paradise with our wide collection of the best indoor plants, from common house plants like the Kentia Palm to artificial plants like the Boston Fern. We have a range of virtually unkillable plants for those with a laid-back plant parenting style and a collection of large indoor plants for a showstopping statement piece in your home.

Shop for your favourites here!

 



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