What to do if a pot plant is re-vegetating

Re-vegetation of pot plants, or secondary growth, can occur when a plant is severely pruned or damaged. This can result in the plant producing new shoots or branches from the base, and these can start to look like a completely different plant altogether. Here are some tips on what to do if your pot plant is re-vegetating:

Identify the plant

Before taking any action, you need to identify what type of plant it is. If the re-vegetation is from the roots, it might be a different plant species. Understanding the type of plant can help you determine whether to leave the new growth or remove it. You can always consult a local nursery or garden center for assistance with identification.

Assess the new growth

If the new growth is healthy and the plant looks better than before, that's great news! You can let it continue growing and shape it to your liking. However, if the new growth is weak, leggy or if there's too much of it, you might need to prune it back. You can use sharp garden shears to carefully remove some of the stems, allowing the plant to focus on fewer, stronger branches.

Repot the plant

If the new growth is substantial and there's not enough room for the plant in its current pot, it might be time to repot it. Choose a pot one or two sizes up and be sure to add fresh soil and compost. Transplant the plant carefully, taking care not to damage the roots.

Eliminate stressors

If the re-vegetation happened because of stressors like extreme temperatures or pest infestations, you'll need to eliminate those stressors. Ensure the plant is getting enough water, sunlight, and is free from pests. If the plant is struggling, you might consider adding a plant-specific fertilizer to provide extra nutrients.

Patience is key

Re-vegetation can be exciting, but it's important to have patience. It can take several months for the new growth to mature and fully develop. Be sure to keep an eye on the plant, and continue to care for it as it grows.

In conclusion

Re-vegetation can be a positive thing for pot plants, but it's important to properly assess and care for the new growth. By identifying the plant, assessing the growth, repotting, eliminating stressors, and practicing patience, you'll be helping your pot plant thrive.