Are You Supposed to Keep Plants in Their Nursery Pots?

When you bring a new plant home, you may wonder whether you should keep it in its nursery pot or repot it right away. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question since different plants have different needs. However, here are some factors to consider.

The Pros and Cons of Keeping Plants in Nursery Pots

One advantage of leaving your plants in their nursery pots is that it can make it easier to transport them. If you want to move your plants around your house or bring them outside for some fresh air, you don't have to worry about getting your hands too dirty, and you can simply pick up the pot and move it.

Another benefit of keeping your plants in their nursery pots is that it can give them a chance to adjust to their new environment. When you bring a plant home from the store or nursery, it may experience some shock due to the change in temperature or light. By keeping it in its original pot for a few weeks, you can give it time to acclimate to its new surroundings before transplanting it.

However, there are also some downsides to keeping your plants in their nursery pots for too long. One issue is that the plant's roots can become root-bound, meaning they grow in a tight ball and can't spread out. This can eventually stunt the plant's growth, and you may notice that it becomes top-heavy or starts to wilt.

Another issue with keeping plants in nursery pots is that they may not have adequate soil or drainage. Nursery pots often come with a basic potting mix that may not provide the right nutrients or support for your plant. Additionally, the holes in the bottom of the pot may not be sufficient for draining excess water. This can lead to issues like root rot or fungal diseases.

When to Repot Your Plants

So when should you consider repotting your plants? Here are some signs to look out for:

Your plant is root-bound: If you see roots growing out of the bottom of the pot or circling around the inside of the pot, it's time to give it more space.

Your plant is top-heavy or leaning to one side: This could be a sign that the roots are overcrowded or that the pot is unstable.

Your plant is wilting or not growing: If your plant is not thriving, it could be due to a lack of nutrients or drainage, which can be addressed by repotting.

How to Repot Your Plants

If you decide to repot your plants, here are some steps to follow:

Choose a pot that is the right size for your plant: It should be slightly larger than the current pot, with enough room for the roots to spread out.

Prepare the potting mix: Use a high-quality potting mix that contains the right nutrients and drainage for your plant.

Remove the plant from its current pot: Gently loosen the roots and remove any excess soil from the roots.

Place the plant in its new pot: Add some potting mix to the bottom of the new pot and place the plant on top. Add more potting mix around the sides, making sure to fill in any gaps.

Water the plant: Give your plant a good watering to help it settle into its new home.

Conclusion

In summary, while it can be convenient to keep your plants in their nursery pots initially, it's important to consider repotting them if they are showing signs of being root-bound or if they aren't thriving. By giving your plants the right space and environment, you can help them grow and flourish for years to come.