Signs It's Time To Re-pot Your Indoor Plants and How To Do It
Indoor plants are a great way to bring some life into your home but taking proper care of them is sometimes difficult. One of the most important things you can do for your indoor plants is to re-pot them when necessary. But how do you know when it's time to re-pot? There are a few different signs that it might be time to re-pot your plant. If your indoor plants are looking a little cramped, it might be time to give them some more room to grow. Re-potting is a great way to refresh your plants and give them the space they need to thrive.
Not sure when it's time to re-pot or how to do it? Below is everything you need to know, from when to re-pot to what soil to use when you do.
When to Re-pot Indoor House Plants
If your indoor plants are looking unhealthy, it might be time to re-pot them. Here are a few signs that it’s time to give your plants some fresh soil:
- The plant is rootbound - When you see roots coming out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot, or if the plant is difficult to remove from the pot, it's probably rootbound. When a plant is rootbound, its roots fill up the entire pot and can't absorb enough water or nutrients. Re-potting will give the roots more space to grow.
- The plant is growing too slowly - If your plant isn’t growing as quickly as it should be, it might be due to a lack of nutrients. Re-potting will give the plant a boost of fresh nutrients and help it start growing again.
- The plant has been in the same pot for more than a year - Even if your plant doesn’t seem to be rootbound or struggling, it’s a good idea to re-pot it every year or so. This will help keep the plant healthy and prevent problems down the road, and it will have room to grow.
- The plant is starting to outgrow its pot. You'll know this is happening if the leaves are starting to droop or if the stem is getting longer and thinner.
What Soil to Use to Re-pot Indoor House Plants
When it comes to re-potting indoor plants, the type of soil you use is important. You want to use a lightweight, well-drained potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite. These ingredients will help to aerate the roots and prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged. Avoid using garden soil, as it's too heavy and can compact around the roots, suffocating the plant.
How to Re-pot Indoor House Plants
If you think it might be time to re-pot your plant, it's easy to do. Start by choosing a new pot that's only slightly larger than the current one. Then, remove the plant from its current pot and gently loosen any tangled roots before placing it in the new pot. Remove the plant gently so as not to sever it from its roots or snap the stem. Turn the plant on its side, angled slightly up at a 45-degree angle. Hold the plant at the stems and leaves gently with your fingertips, and tap the bottom of the original pot until the plant gives way and you can easily pull it out. Just be patient. You don't want to stress the plant. Fill in around the roots with fresh potting mix and water.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your indoor plants healthy and looking their best. Flower Works has a selection of houseplants if you are looking to update your indoor greenery. Stop by and take a breather and browse our selection of potted plants available for sale.