The Essential Guide to Rehoming Plants
Ever grow out of a place? When you crave a fresh start and feel the call to a new home, it would do more harm than good to stay where you are. Just like us, our plant friends outgrow their pots and need a change of scenery in order to thrive to their truest potential. It’s quite poetic, actually. Repotting is crucial when it comes to nurturing healthy, happy plants for the long haul. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from when to repot to how to choose the right soil and material.
Let’s dig in.
SIGNS IT’S TIME
Before you embark on the journey to re-homing your plants, it’s essential to read the telltale signs that it’s about time for a change of scenery. Keep an eye out for the these issues:
- Crowded Roots: Ah, the classic. Do you see roots circling the surface? Are they starting to poke out of the drainage holes? If so, it’s a clear indication that your plant has outgrown its pot. Time for a new one!
- Sluggish Growth: Is your once-luscious and vibrant beauty looking a bit lethargic? Slow or stunted growth can be a sign that the roots are running out of room to breathe, and need a more spacious environment. We tend to see this a lot with pothos plants.
- Watering Woes: You’re following a regular watering schedule now. But, have you noticed you are watering your plant more frequently and it still seems thirsty? If so, the soil could be compacted and not retaining moisture like it once was. You may need a soil change and new pot.
- Top-Heavy Plants: So, you’ve done a great job at caretaking your plant from when it was young. But now, it’s starting to lean to the side, and topples over despite your best efforts. This is most likely because the roots can no longer support its weight. A larger, stronger pot to anchor the roots is the move.
- Poor Drainage: Our biggest no-no when it comes to watering? Not having a well-drained pot. If water accumulates at the bottom and your plant’s roots are waterlogged, it’s high time for a rehoming session.
THE ART OF THE NEW POT
Picture this: the earth is warming, the sun is starting to peek out on a regular basis, and the ground is waking up after a long frost. It’s finally spring, and now is the time to repot. The ideal season is spring and early summer to repot, as your plant is in its active growing phase, making it more adaptable to change. Avoid repotting during the harsh winter months, or when the plant is flowering – this may shock it. Once you’re ready, here are your steps:
- Pick The Right Pot: When it comes to choosing a new home for your plant, consider factors like size, material, and drainage.
- Sizing Matters: Good rule of thumb: opt for a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. A too-large pot can lead to overwatering, root rot, and a host of other long-term issues.
- Material Choices: Terracotta, ceramic, plastic, oh my! Each has its pros and cons. For instance: terracotta breathes, but it dries out quickly. Plastic retains moisture, but can lead to overwatering. Overall, ceramic pots are the most balanced.
- The Drainage Diary: Make sure your new pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape (you already know how we feel about these). Standing water in the pot can be disastrous for your plant’s health.
- Soil Types: Different plants have different soil preferences, of course. Consult with local garden centers or do your research to find the right soil mix for your particular plant. Generally, a well-draining mix with perlite is a safe bet. Just remember: don’t reuse old potting soil, as it may have lost its nutrients.
NOW, LET’S GET TO WORK
First, prep your space. You will make a mess! So make sure to have plenty of room to play. Lay out all your tools: a trowel, gloves, and a brand new pot. Then, remove the plant with careful attention to the roots. We know it’s tempting, but try not to break up the roots. Tap or squeeze the sides of the old pot to loosen, and hold the base of the plant. From here, you’re ready to prune.
Ever-so-gently, trim any damaged or rotting ones with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. This encourages healthy regrowth – a major plus before repotting.
Next, add a layer of soil to the new pot. Place a layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom of the new pot, ensuring it’s enough to lift the plant to the desired height. Be sure to create a well in the center to accommodate the root ball that’s double the size of the old pot. Position the plant in its new spot, making sure it sits at the same depth as in the old pot. Fill potting mix around the plant, gently tapping the pot to settle the soil. Tip: leave an inch or two of space at the top for watering.
Finally: water, water, water. After repotting, give your plant a good drink to help settle the soil. This also hydrates the roots and reduces transplant shock (yes, it’s a thing)!
Just like we humans need a bit of time, space, and care to acclimate to a new home or place, your plants need the same. Put your newly potted plant in a location with just the right light and temperature conditions. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days while it adjusts to its new home.
POST RE-POTTING CARE
Congratulations! Your beloved plant now has more space to spread its wings…er, roots. Now comes the essential aftercare: monitoring your plant’s watering and fertilization needs.
The fresh soil mix may retain moisture differently from the old one, so adjust your water schedule accordingly. Also, it is a good idea to re-fertilize to compensate for any lost, but we recommend holding off on it for a few days after repotting. The plant needs time to recover from the stress of the move, but once it’s settled, resume your nutrient routine.
When it comes to pruning, make it a regular practice once it’s in a new pot, as you may notice faster growth. Here’s some tips to get you going.
As always, patience is key. Don’t expect your plant to bounce back immediately. It may take a few weeks to regain its vigor! Relax, keep an eye on its progress, and you’ll see the rewards of your efforts in no time.
Re-homing your plants is an essential skill in the gardening world. It ensures your green companions have adequate room to grow and thrive in your living spaces, whether indoors or out in the elements. Your plant will be healthier and happier with a regular labor of love. Roll up your sleeves and dig in!
Happy re-homing,
The Sun Grove Care Team
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