Can I Just Refill Potted Plants with More Soil?

As a plant lover, one of the most common dilemmas faced when caring for potted plants is deciding whether to refill the soil or simply add more soil to the pot. While it may seem like an easy solution, adding more soil to potted plants isn't always the best option, and there are several factors to consider before deciding whether to refill potting soil or add more to it.

Why Refilling Potted Plants with More Soil May Not Be Always Appropriate

The first thing to keep in mind is the quality of the existing soil in the pot. Over time, soil in potted plants can become compacted, devoid of nutrients, and even infested with pests or diseases. Adding more soil to the plant pot without first addressing the underlying issues surrounding the soil won't necessarily solve the problem.

In addition to this, adding more soil to the pot can make it difficult to regulate the amount of water that plants receive, especially if the soil is hydrophobic. As water runs off the surface of the pot, it can lead to inconsistent moisture levels, which is bad news for most potted plants.

When Refilling Potted Plants with More Soil is Suitable

While there are reasons why adding new soil to potted plants may not be the best option, there are also scenarios where it's the right choice. Usually, this is when you're dealing with a plant that is struggling because its pot is too small, or where the existing soil has become compacted, depleted, and unable to support the plant as required. In such cases, you can safely refill the pot with fresh potting soil, provided you have dealt with the root problem first.

Additionally, if you have a well-draining pot that is not hydrophobic and is capable of holding fresh soil, then you can top up the pot with a new batch of soil without any issues.

The Right Way to Refill Potted Plants with More Soil

If you've decided to refill your potted plants with more soil, there are some basic steps you need to follow to ensure that the process is done properly without harming the plants.

Step 1: Remove the plant from the pot and remove any old soil that sticks to the roots. Use a clean pot and discard any old soil that can't be reused.

Step 2: Add a base layer of gravel, pebbles, or sand to the bottom of the pot. This layer helps to facilitate water drainage and prevent soil compaction.

Step 3: Fill the pot with fresh potting soil until it's about two-thirds full.

Step 4: Plant the root ball of your plant at the center of the pot and ensure it sits at the same depth it did before repotting.

Step 5: Add more soil around the sides, gradually building up until it reaches the top. Ensure that you don't bury the stem of the plant or any leaves in the process.

Step 6: Water your potted plant thoroughly, allowing the water to drain out of the bottom of the pot.

Final Thoughts

Refilling potted plants with more soil is an essential part of keeping your plants healthy, but as we've seen, it needs to be done the right way. Knowing when and how to add more soil to potted plants will save you time, effort, and money, while ultimately ensuring your plants thrive.