Healthy roots mean a healthy plant. This is achieved through the right choice of soil mix, proper watering, and repotting. Unlike outdoor plants, houseplants grow in smaller pots, making them more sensitive to soil choice and requiring occasional repotting. Soil for houseplants should always be airy and composed of particles of different sizes, such as perlite, bark, and peat. Additives like charcoal, volcanic clay, fertilizer, sand, and vermiculite further improve its structure and properties. It is important to occasionally replace the soil to maintain the plant’s health.

When to repot houseplants:

• When roots start growing out of the drainage holes and the plant needs frequent watering – more than once a week.
• When the soil looks worn out and unhealthy.
• If pests are visible on the plant.
• In case of root rot.

It’s best to repot in spring, when nature awakens and new growth begins. Only repot if necessary, as the process can stress the plant. As foliage grows, roots also grow. If roots are coming out of the drainage holes and the plant requires constant watering, it’s a clear sign it needs a larger pot. In this case, repot into a pot that is 10–20% wider in diameter. This provides a healthy environment and encourages new growth.

If a plant has been in the same soil for several years, the soil is likely depleted, nutrient-poor, and full of water residues. We recommend changing the soil once a year to once every two years. For very large plants in pots larger than 30 cm in diameter, a longer interval between repottings is acceptable.

In cases of problems like pests or root rot, repot the plant into fresh substrate after treatment.

How to repot plants (simple method)

Step 1: Remove the plant from its pot with the entire root system
If the roots haven’t grown out of the pot yet, this should be fairly easy. Gently squeeze the pot to loosen the soil. If there’s little soil left and a dense root mass, it may be necessary to cut the plastic pot.

Step 2: Loosen the soil and roots
If the soil is healthy and pest-free, you don’t need to remove much. Usually, remove about 20–50% of the old soil. Shake off excess soil and gently loosen the roots with fingers or sticks. If the soil is infected, use a water stream to wash it away.

Step 3: Prepare the new pot and soil
If reusing a pot, clean it thoroughly first. Cover the bottom with soil – approximately 10–20% of the pot’s height. Place the plant in the center and fill the sides with soil. Do not compact the soil, as this can damage the roots. Tap the pot gently to settle the soil. Make sure the roots are fully covered.

Step 4: Water the plant
Water evenly and add soil if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions about Repotting

Can I repot plants in winter?
If not necessary, it’s best to wait until spring when the plant is actively growing and better able to handle the stress. If the plant really needs fresh soil, you can repot it, but avoid exposing it to frost or unnecessary root disturbance.

Should plants be repotted immediately after purchase?
Plants are usually slightly cramped in stores. Wait at least 14 days after bringing a plant home before repotting, allowing it to adjust to its new environment and recover from transport stress.

What kind of pot should I use?
Always use a pot with drainage holes, otherwise root rot can occur, stopping growth. Porous clay pots are a good choice for plants that dislike soggy soil (cacti, succulents, hoyas, some aroids), as they draw out excess water. In addition to standard plastic pots, transparent pots are also available for monitoring root health.