How to Repot Pot Bound Plant

When your plant has outgrown its current container, it is time to repot it. Pot-bound plants can experience stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and root rot. Repotting your plant will not only keep it healthy, but it will also give it more room to grow. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to repot a pot-bound plant:

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot

Choose a new pot that is one size larger than the current one. Make sure there are drainage holes in the bottom of the pot to allow excess water to drain out. If the new pot is too large, the soil will stay too wet, which can lead to root rot.

Step 2: Prepare the New Pot

Fill the new pot with fresh potting soil, leaving about 1-2 inches of space at the top. Make sure the soil is slightly moist but not soaking wet. This will help the plant settle into its new home.

Step 3: Remove the Plant from its Current Pot

Gently remove the plant from its current pot. To do this, turn the pot upside down and tap the bottom of the pot. The root ball should slide out easily. If it doesn’t, you can gently loosen the soil around the edges of the pot. Avoid pulling on the plant’s stem, as this can damage it.

Step 4: Loosen the Roots

Gently loosen the roots from the root ball. If the plant has been pot bound for a long time, the roots may have grown in a circular pattern around the root ball. In this case, you may need to gently tease the roots apart with your fingers or a gardening tool. Be careful not to damage the roots.

Step 5: Plant the Potted Plant

Place the plant in the center of the new pot and add fresh soil around the root ball. Press the soil down gently to remove any air pockets. Leave about an inch of space between the soil and the rim of the pot to allow for watering.

Step 6: Water Your Repotted Plant

Water the plant thoroughly, until water starts draining out of the bottom of the pot. This will help settle the soil around the roots. After watering, be sure to remove any excess water from the saucer beneath the pot to prevent root rot.

Step 7: Care for Your Newly Repotted Plant

After repotting, your plant may experience some shock as it adjusts to its new home. Keep it in a shaded area for a few days and avoid fertilizing for the first month. Water your plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Check the soil’s moisture level regularly to ensure that it is not too dry or too wet.

With a little bit of care and attention, your plant should recover quickly from repotting and will continue to grow and thrive in its new home.