How to Take a Plant out of Its Pot

Taking a plant out of its pot is a simple process, but it needs to be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant's roots. Unskilled handling can lead to the plant becoming traumatized, and it can take time to recover. This step-by-step guide will provide you with the knowledge to take your plant out of a pot with ease.

Gather the Appropriate Supplies

Before starting, ensure that you have all the necessary tools to take the plant out of its pot. Gloves are essential to protect your hands from thorns or other sharp objects. You'll also need a trowel or a similar tool to help loosen the soil around the plant's roots. A bucket or clean pot to place the plant in will also be required.

Water the Plant the Night Before

The night before removing the plant from its pot, water it thoroughly. Adequate watering will make it easier to remove the plant the next day. The moisture will help to separate the roots from the soil and make the soil more malleable.

Loosen the Soil Around the Roots

Carefully turn the pot upside down, holding onto the stem of the plant with one hand. Tap the bottom of the pot gently to loosen the soil. If the plant doesn't come out of the pot easily, use a trowel or similar tool to loosen the soil around the edges of the pot. The goal is to loosen the soil without damaging the roots.

Remove the Plant from the Pot

Remove the pot from the plant once the soil is loosened. If the plant is still stuck in the pot, slide a knife or similar tool between the pot and the soil to assist with removal. Be cautious not to cut the plant's roots.

Check for Circled Roots

Once the plant is removed from the pot, check to see if any roots have grown in a circle. Gently loosen these roots with your fingers, or use a pair of scissors to make small cuts along where the roots wrap around each other. This will allow the roots to spread out into their new, larger pot.

Plant the Root Ball in a New Pot

Place the plant into a clean pot, ensuring that the root ball is positioned in the center. Slowly add the potting soil around the plant, carefully packing it down to ensure that there are no air pockets. The new pot should have drainage holes at the bottom, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot.

Water the Plant

After planting, water the plant thoroughly. This helps settle the soil and ensures that the roots are saturated with water. Ensure that any excess water is allowed to drain out of the pot. Watering should be done regularly and in line with the plant's specific watering requirements.

Concluding Thoughts

Taking a plant out of its pot can be stressful for the plant, but if done correctly, it will thrive in its new pot. Ensuring that you gather the correct tools and follow each step carefully will ensure your plant's success.