A Guide to Repotting Your Houseplants

Is your plant looking a little cramped? Maybe it's drooping for no clear reason, or roots are starting to peek out from the bottom of the pot. These are all signs your leafy friend might be ready for a new home!

At Wildwood Nursery, we love helping plant parents give their houseplants the care they need to thrive. Repotting might sound intimidating, but it's actually a simple way to refresh your plant's health and appearance. Here's everything you need to know about repotting houseplants the right way.

Why Repot Your Houseplants?

Most houseplants benefit from being repotted every 12 to 18 months, especially during the spring or summer growing season. Here's why: 

-Root Growth: When roots outgrow their pot, they become root-bound and can't absorb water or nutrients effectively.

-Soil Health: Over time, soil breaks down and loses nutrients, making it harder for your plant to thrive.

-Fresh Start: Repotting gives your plant fresh soil, more room to grow, and better drainage.

Signs It's Time to Repot

-Roots growing out of the drainage holes

-Water runs straight through the pot without soaking in

-Yellowing leaves or stunted growth

-The plant looks too big for its pot or is top-heavy

-Soil is compacted or smells musty

What You'll Need

-A new pot (1-2 inches wider than the current one)

-Fresh, high-quality potting mix suitable for your plant

-Gardening gloves (optional)

-A trowel or spoon

-Watering can

Step-by-Step: How to Repot Like a Pro

1. Choose the Right Pot: Make sure your new pot has drainage holes. It should be just slightly larger than the old one-too big, and the soil may hold excess water and cause root rot.

2. Prep Your Plant: Water your plant a day before repotting to make removal easier and reduce shock. Gently slide it out of its pot, tapping the sides if it's stuck.

3. Loosen the Roots: Tease apart tightly packed roots with your fingers. If the roots are circling around the base, trim a few with clean scissors to encourage new growth.

4. Add Fresh Soil: Pour a layer of new potting mix into the bottom of the new pot. Place the plant in and fill in around it wiht more soil, leaving about an inch at th etop for watering space.

5. Settle In: Lightly press down the soil and water thoroughly. Let the plant drain and give it a few days to adjust-it may look a little stressed at first, but that's normal.

Aftercare Tips

-Keep the plant out of direct sunlight for a few days to reduce translant shock

-Hold off on fertilizing for 3-4 weeks-fresh soil has plenty of nutrients.

-Water when the top inch of soil feels dry (unless your plant has special needs).

Need Help Picking the Right Soil or Pot?

We've got you covered! Stop by Wildwood Nursery for premium potting mixes, stylish pots, and expert advice. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your collection, we're hereto help your greenery grow happy and strong.