There are a few schools of thought about the best time for repotting plants. Our answer is whenever your plant needs it, regardless of the time of year. If you are re-potting simply to freshen the soil, or because your current container is 'so last season' then the best time for you is spring. The sun is stronger, days are longer, and plants are actively growing and can take the stress better.
Gertens has a full selection of houseplants
How to tell if you should you repot:
- If your plant is so happy that it has overwhelmed the container, roots are emerging from the drainage hole and/or lying exposed on the surface and new growth and blooms are minimal, then it is time to go shopping (yay!) for a larger container.
- Another way to tell is to pop the plant out of its container. You can do this by placing one hand around the base of the plant, tipping it upside down, and tapping the side of the pot with your other hand. If you see one big mass tangle of roots, your plant is becoming root-bound and needs a bigger home.
- If you notice black, weak roots and/or an unpleasant odor, you most likely do not have adequate drainage or you have poor soil conditions, and it is time to re-pot.
- When repotting, purchase a pot that is just one size up. “Most” plants do not want or need a pot that is too large for them.
- And choose the appropriate soil mix for the type of plant. Most housplants prefer potting soil but be sure to talk with our experts as orchids, succulents and more need a different type of soil media.
This Peace Lily is root-bound
Cut through circling roots and trim
The experts at Gertens are always available to answer your questions!