Do You Water Plants While Repotting?

Repotting is an essential task for every plant owner. It rejuvenates the plants by providing them with fresh soil and additional nutrients. However, many people are unsure whether they should water their plants while repotting or not. In this article, we will explore this topic in detail and provide you with the answer.

Watering Before Repotting

Before repotting your plants, it is important to give them a thorough watering session. This will help them to survive the stress of the repotting process without going into shock. By watering them a few hours before repotting, the plants will be well-hydrated, and their roots will be moist, making it easier to detach them from the old soil.

Watering During Repotting

The general rule of thumb is to avoid watering your plants while you are repotting them. This is because watering can make the soil more compact and sticky, making it harder to remove the old soil from the roots. Additionally, if you water your plants during repotting, the soil may get too muddy and clump together, which can cause root damage and even suffocate your plant.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If your plant has been sitting in the same pot for a long time and the soil has become dry and hard, you can water it slightly during repotting. This will help to loosen the soil and make it easier to remove. Alternatively, if the roots of your plant are extremely dry or damaged, you can give them a quick soak in water before repotting.

Watering After Repotting

After you have repotted your plants, it is important to give them a good drink of water. This will help to settle the new soil and remove any air pockets that may have formed during the repotting process. Additionally, watering your plants after repotting will help to promote new root growth and encourage healthy foliage.

However, it is important to avoid overwatering your plants after repotting. Too much water can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Instead, water your plants sparingly and only when the soil feels dry to the touch. This will ensure that your plants have enough water to thrive without causing any damage to their roots.

Conclusion

In summary, it is generally best to avoid watering your plants while repotting. Watering can make the soil more compact and muddy, which can cause root damage and suffocation. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and you may need to water your plants slightly if their soil is extremely dry or hard. After repotting, it is important to give your plants a good watering session to promote healthy growth, but be sure to avoid overwatering them. With these tips, you can ensure that your plants thrive after the repotting process.