What to Do When Your Plant Outgrows Its Pot

Houseplants are a great way to add some greenery to your living space. Watching them grow and thrive can be very rewarding, but what happens when your plant grows to a size that no longer fits in its pot?

Recognize the Signs

The first step in dealing with an overgrown plant is to recognize the signs. If you notice that the roots are growing out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot, or if the plant is leaning to one side, it's time to take action. Another sign is if the soil dries out much more quickly than usual, as this could mean that the roots are taking up all the available water.

Choose a Bigger Pot

The easiest solution is to re-pot your plant into a bigger pot. You'll need to choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot, and it should have drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom. Fill the bottom of the new pot with fresh soil, and gently remove the plant from its old pot, being careful not to damage the roots. Place the plant in the new pot and add soil around the edges, gently packing it down to eliminate any air pockets.

Prune Your Plant

Sometimes, a larger pot is not an option because of space constraints. In this case, you can prune your plant to keep it from growing too large. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, and cut back any branches that are too long or too large for the pot. Cutting back the top of the plant will also encourage it to grow bushier and fuller, rather than taller.

Divide Your Plant

If your plant has become too large for its pot, it may also be time to divide it. Divide the plant by gently removing it from its pot and separating the root system into smaller sections. Each section should have its own healthy roots and foliage. Plant each section in a new pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly. This will not only ensure that your plant has more room to grow, but it will also help prevent the soil from becoming depleted of nutrients.

Conclusion

Keeping your plant healthy and happy will require some attention and care over time. Moving it to a larger pot, pruning it, or dividing it are all great solutions to help your plant thrive. By recognizing the signs and taking action when necessary, you'll be able to enjoy your beautiful, thriving plants for years to come.