The Do's and Don'ts of Repotting Plants — Plant Care Tips and More

Repotting plants is a simple task, but there are a few tips and tricks to maximize the benefits of this plant care routine. Here are our Plant Doctor’s top ten Do’s and Don’ts when it comes to repotting your plants!

Don’t Size Down (Usually)

In most cases, you will either keep the same size or size up when repotting. There is no benefit to repotting in a smaller pot unless you are propagating and separating the plant into two or more new ones, or you are repotting a plant that has had root rot and as a consequence has very few healthy roots left.

Don’t Repot Into A Huge Container

A big part of repotting is giving plants more room to grow. That said, you don’t want to give them too much room. Why’s that? Most plants like to have their roots very snugly packed. A pot that’s too big may lead to poor root health and a sad looking plant overall.

DON’T Leave Any Air In The Soil

Make sure that your plant’s new soil is well-packed when repotting. This not only adds stability to the plant, but also ensures their soil is as nutrient-dense as possible!

DON’T Fertilize right after repotting

Moving can be stressful! Let your plant acclimate for at least a week or two after repotting before introducing any plant food.

DO Repot in the spring or summer

The best time to repot is when your plant is in active growing phase, or during the spring and summer. This is when your plant is at its strongest, and will bounce back from any stress more easily.

DO Repot in the Same or Slightly Bigger Container

Repotting doesn’t always mean giving your plant a bigger pot. Sometimes you’ll repot just to provide your plant with fresh new soil. That said, if you do decide to size up, use a pot that’s only slightly bigger in diameter — 2 inches is great — so that your plant still enjoys a snug home.

Do Consider Separating If Necessary

Sometimes plants will be too big for their own good. If sizing up is not an option, you may consider separating your plant into two or more plants (this is a method of propagation).

Do Use Fresh Potting Soil

When it comes to soil, it’s best not to recycle. Fresh, unused potting soil will have plenty of nutrients that your plant craves.

Do Water Thoroughly After Repotting

Give your plant one big drink once it’s settled in its new home, and get ready to watch it flourish!

Ready to get repotting? Our Deluxe Repotting Kit is a complete set of everything you need (and nothing you don’t) to repot large and XL Léon & George plants.