Can You Leave Plants in the Pot They Came In?

When you purchase a new plant, it often comes in a decorative pot or plastic container. As a new plant owner, you may wonder whether you should repot the plant into a larger container. The answer to this question may vary depending on the plant and the pot it came in.

Understanding the Benefits of Repotting

While you can leave plants in the pot they came in, there are several benefits to repotting your plant. When you repot a plant, you give it more room to grow and expand its root system. This allows the plant to take in more nutrients and water, which can help it thrive.

In addition, repotting can help prevent the plant from becoming rootbound, which occurs when the roots become too large for the pot. A rootbound plant can experience stunted growth, nutrient deficiencies, and water retention issues.

Factors to Consider When Deciding Whether to Repot

While repotting can be beneficial, it’s not always necessary. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to repot your plant:

The plant’s size: If the plant is small and the pot it came in still has plenty of room, you may not need to repot it.

The type of plant: Some plants prefer to be rootbound and may not need to be repotted until they outgrow their pot.

The pot’s material: If the pot is made of porous material, such as terra cotta, it may absorb some of the plant’s moisture. This can be beneficial for plants that prefer drier soil.

How to Repot a Plant

If you’ve decided to repot your plant, here are the steps to follow:

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current pot. The new pot should have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Prepare the new pot by filling the bottom with fresh potting soil.

Carefully remove the plant from its current pot, being careful not to damage the roots. If the plant is rootbound, you may need to gently pull on the roots to loosen them.

Place the plant in the new pot and fill in the remaining space with fresh potting soil. Water the plant thoroughly.

In Conclusion

While you can leave plants in the pot they came in, repotting can be beneficial for the plant’s growth and health. When deciding whether to repot your plant, consider factors such as the plant’s size, type, and the material of the pot. If you do decide to repot, follow the steps outlined above to ensure a successful transition for your plant.