This post shows how to know when to repot a plant!
The worst thing is your plant being under stress and you have no idea what’s wrong.
Luckily, after years of trial and error, I can usually narrow down common problems to two things:
- Overwatering
- It’s time to repot
Proper potting is super easy to learn so there’s no excuse for leaving your plants struggling in too-small pots!
A good time to check is every Spring as plants have new growth. Make it a point to move the ones needing more space into new pots.
If you receive a plant as a gift planter with multiple smaller plants (which is common), you should repot them in individual pots for better survival.
Let’s dive in to the warning signs that it’s time to repot to keep your plant happy and thriving!
When repotting, be gentle with separating the roots. Keep them away from direct sun until they have recovered from transplant shock.
5 Ways to Know If A Plant Needs Repotting
#1 The Plant Wilts Between Waterings
If the pot is too small for the plant’s roots to absorb nutrients from the soil, it will begin to wilt.
Generally plants should be transferred to a new pot or container that is no more than one inch larger in diameter.
Other possible causes:
- The pot is too big for the roots and are at risk of root rot.
#2 The New Leaves Are Smaller Than the Old Leaves
New leaves don’t always unfurl at the same size but if you notice there’s a trend happening, it’s time to inspect.
Your plant may be not getting enough nutrients, which again, is caused from roots not able to extract enough due to a small pot.
Other possible issues:
- The soil doesn’t have enough nutrients and needs fresh potting mix.
#3 The Plant is Growing Spindly or Not At All in a 2 to 3 Inch Pot
Many plants go dormant during shorter winter days, which is common.
However, if you have a plant that is growing at a slow rate or the growth is spindly and weak-looking, take a look at roots.
Other possible causes:
- Spindly plants also may need more sunlight so move to a brighter location.
#4 You’re Watering Often Due to the Soil Not Holding Moisture
If you buy a small plant and discover you have to worry it daily because the soil is too porous and won’t hold moisture, it’s probably time to repot.
You May Also Like:
- How to Fix Compacted Soil in Plants: 5 Tips
#5 Roots Are Growing Out of the Drainage Holes
It’s normal for a few roots to grow out of a drainage hole.
But when several large roots start to crowd their way through, you know they need more growing space.
Things to Know:
Ferns and palms enjoy being slightly root-bound and shouldn’t be repotted too frequently.
How to Repot a Plant in 5 Steps
Layout all your supplies. Pick out your new pot ensuring you pick the suitable type dependent on plant.
Remove the plant from its old pot. Tip the pot upside down and tapping it against a counter or tabletop. If plastic, I like to roll them on the side and applying pressure. Retain as much soil around roots as possible.
Center the plant in its new pot. Hold it in place with one hand while adding in remaining soil around the edges.
Give the plant a thorough soaking. This is to make up for plant transplant shock. The plant may look a little wilted as a result but she is resilient!
Set the new potted plant in indirect light. Keep it there for several days to adjust to their new home.
