When to Change Pots for Plants?

If you're an avid gardener, then you must know the importance of potting and repotting plants. However, not every plant requires a frequent change of pot. In this article, we will explore when it is best to change pots for plants and why it's necessary.

Why does a plant need a new pot?

Before diving into when to change pots for plants, let's first understand why it's necessary. Over time, a plant will outgrow its current pot, and its roots will start to grow in circles around the pot's bottom. This can lead to the roots becoming root-bound, where they don't have enough room to grow, and the plant can suffer.

A root-bound plant will have a hard time absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, which can lead to stunted growth and a weaker plant. Moreover, a pot-bound plant can become susceptible to root rot, which can spread to other plants in the same pot or area.

When is the best time to change a plant's pot?

So, when is the best time to change a plant's pot? It's recommended to repot a plant every two to three years. However, this can vary depending on a few factors such as:

The plant's growth rate: Some plants grow faster than others, meaning they will outgrow their pots quickly and need repotting sooner.

The size of the pot: A smaller pot will require more frequent repotting as the plant grows larger.

The type of plant: Some plants like succulents or cacti prefer being root-bound and will not require frequent repotting.

If you notice your plant's roots growing out of the drainage holes, or the soil is drying out too quickly, it could be time to repot. Additionally, if you observe the plant seems to be outgrowing its pot, then it's worth considering repotting it to provide more growing space and better soil nutrients.

How to repot a plant?

Now that we've established when to change pots for plants let's go through the steps of repotting a plant:

Choose a new pot: Select a pot that's large enough to allow the plant's roots to spread out and has good drainage holes

Prepare the soil mixture: A mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite creates a well-draining soil that will help your plant grow well.

Remove the plant from its current pot: Carefully remove the plant and untangle any roots that may have grown in circles around the pot's bottom.

Add soil mixture to the new pot: Add a few inches of soil mixture to the bottom of the new pot and create a small hole in the center for the plant.

Place the plant in the pot: Gently place the plant in the center, making sure the roots are straightened out and covered in soil.

Add more soil: Add more soil mixture around the sides of the plant and gently press down on the soil to remove any air pockets.

Water the plant: Give the plant a thorough watering and allow any excess water to drain out of the pot's bottom.

Conclusion

Changing pots for plants may seem like a tedious task, but it's essential to ensure a plant's health and growth. By knowing when to change pots and how to do it, your plants will thrive, and you'll have a beautiful garden to enjoy.