How to Change Soil in Potted Plants

Changing the soil in potted plants is a necessary practice to maintain the health and longevity of the plant. Over time, the soil becomes depleted of nutrients and can become compacted, which can hinder the plant's growth. Here are some steps to follow when changing soil in your potted plants.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin changing the soil, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You will need a container to hold the old soil, fresh soil, gloves, a trowel, a watering can, and a new pot if the old one is too small for the plant. The new pot should be just slightly larger than the old one, as plants do not generally like too much extra space.

Remove the Plant from the Pot

Carefully remove the plant from the pot, being careful not to damage the roots. If the plant is stuck, you may need to gently tap the sides and bottom of the pot to loosen it. Once the plant is out of the pot, examine the roots. If they look brown, mushy or there is a foul odor, then they may be diseased and need to be trimmed.

Clean the Pot and Trim the Roots

Clean the old pot thoroughly with soap and water. If there is mineral buildup on the sides or bottom of the pot, you can use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar to clean it off. Trim any diseased or dead roots from the plant with scissors or pruning shears. This will encourage new growth and prevent the decay from spreading to healthy parts of the plant.

Add Fresh Soil

Add enough fresh soil to the bottom of the pot to raise the plant to the desired height. Place the plant in the pot and add more soil, firming it gently around the roots. Do not fill the pot all the way to the top, as you need to leave room for watering. Water the plant well after the soil has been added, making sure to thoroughly saturate the soil.

Maintain the Plant

After changing the soil, it's important to maintain the plant's health by giving it the proper care. This includes watering, fertilizing, and pruning. Water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month, and prune as needed to encourage healthy growth. With proper care, your potted plant will continue to thrive for years to come.

In Conclusion

Changing the soil in potted plants is an essential practice for keeping your plants healthy and beautiful. By following these steps, you can ensure that your plants are getting the nutrients they need, and that the soil is not becoming too compacted. Don't forget to continue providing care for your plant after changing the soil, and you'll be rewarded with a flourishing and vibrant addition to your home or garden.