When should I change the soil in my potted plants?

As a plant parent, it is important to ensure that your potted plants have healthy soil to grow in. Over time, the soil in your pots may become depleted, compacted, or contaminated which can negatively affect your plant's growth. So when should you change the soil in your potted plants?

Signs that it's time to change your soil

There are a few signs that indicate it's time to change the soil in your potted plants:

The soil is compacted, making it difficult for water to penetrate through.

Your plant is not growing as well as it used to, despite regular watering and fertilizing.

The soil has a bad odor or appears moldy or slimy.

You've had your plant for a few years and haven't changed the soil.

When to change the soil

If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it's time to change the soil in your potted plants. However, it's also a good idea to change your soil periodically, even if you haven't noticed any issues. A general rule of thumb is to change the soil every 1-2 years, depending on the size of the pot and the type of plant.

It's best to change the soil in the late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. This gives your plant enough time to adjust to its new soil before it starts actively growing again.

How to change the soil

Changing the soil in your potted plants is a simple and straightforward process:

Carefully remove the plant from its pot, being careful not to damage the roots.

Brush off as much of the old soil as possible, being careful not to damage the roots.

Trim any dead or damaged roots with clean, sharp scissors.

Place a layer of fresh soil at the bottom of the pot.

Place the plant on top of the soil and gently add more soil around the root ball, making sure not to bury the stem.

Water the plant thoroughly.

It's important to use fresh, high-quality soil when repotting your plants. You can use a pre-made potting mix or make your own by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

Conclusion

Changing the soil in your potted plants may seem like a daunting task, but it's necessary for the health and well-being of your plants. Keep an eye out for the signs that it's time to change the soil, and don't forget to change it periodically to keep your plants happy and healthy.