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Repotting houseplants can be an important aspect of long-term care and maintenance.
We spoke with experts to get some tips on repotting houseplants so they survive and thrive.
Meet the Expert
When Should You Repot a Plant?
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Timing is an important factor when repotting houseplants.
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one holds the plant while the other adds potting soil) to help make things easier.
Hird believes as long as the plant is handled gently, it should survive therepotting process.
Go slowly and take your time.
Sims recommends gently loosening the roots and trimming them lightly before repotting, to encourage new growth.
Some plants may be able to handle having the roots trimmed more extensively, depending on the variety.
Experts also agree you should water the plant to keep it alive after the stress of moving it.
Don’t overwater, especially if this is an issue for your plant.
Sims recommends not placing it directly in bright sunlight right away to avoid stress on the plant.
Finally, it’s important not tofertilize your planttoo soon after repotting.
Fertilizer can potentially shock a plant that is already stressed.
Allow some time for it to adjust to its new environment.
Sims recommends resuming regular fertilizing after three weeks.
Handle the plant gently, water regularly, but don’t overwater.
Don’t fertilize too soon; wait at least three weeks.
Some hardy plants can handle having their roots cut or the root ball broken up.
To lessen root shock, untangle roots gently and trim their edges lightly.
