Repotting sounds like a big job, but most houseplants need it only every two or three years, and it takes about fifteen minutes once you’ve done it once.
Does it need a new pot?
Look for roots growing out of the drainage holes, water running straight through without soaking in, or a plant that dries out in a couple of days. If none of those apply, leave it be. Plants often grow better slightly snug.
Choosing the pot
Go up just one size, about 2–5 cm wider than the current pot. A pot that’s much bigger holds extra compost that stays wet, and that’s what causes root rot. Whatever the pot looks like on the outside, it needs a drainage hole. A decorative pot without one can still be used as a cover pot, with the plant sitting inside in its plastic nursery pot.
The compost
Use a peat-free houseplant compost. For aroids such as monstera and pothos, mix in a couple of handfuls of orchid bark to open it up. For snake plants, ZZs and succulents, add horticultural grit.
Step by step
- Water the plant the day before. Moist roots slide out more easily and cope better with the move.
- Lay down newspaper, or do it outside.
- Tip the plant on its side and ease it out, squeezing the nursery pot if it’s plastic.
- Gently loosen circling roots with your fingers, and trim any that are brown and mushy.
- Put a layer of compost in the new pot so the top of the root ball sits about 2 cm below the rim.
- Fill around the sides, firm lightly and water well.
Keep the plant out of direct sun for a week while it settles. Don’t feed it for a month, as fresh compost has plenty of nutrients.
Rather not get your hands dirty? Our repotting service is free for any pot you buy in the shop.
