Many cacti varieties are adorned with sharp spines that act as protection for the plant.

This also makes transplanting cacti a difficult, sometimes dangerous task.

It’s also a good idea to invest in a pair of thick protectivegardening gloves.

Cactus plant transplanted into clay pot with fresh soil

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

It’s best to repot acactusin the early to mid-spring when the plant has entered its active growing period.

Wear protective equipment like thick gardening gloves and long-sleeved clothes while transplanting a cactus to avoid getting poked.

Regardless of the size, wearing thick, protective gloves is always recommended when handling cacti.

Small cacti and succulent plants next to tipped over clay pot with soil coming out, metal tongs and garden gloves

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

Gently wiggle the root ball out of the old pot and lay the cactus flat on your working area.

Depending on how root-bound the plant is, this can sometimes be a delicate process.

Take it slow and be careful not to break too many roots.

Cactus plant pulled out of clay pot with metal tongs

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

Cut back any dead or diseasedrootsand apply a fungicide if needed.

After a week or so you could resume your regular watering schedule.

As cacti are desert plants, they require a significant amount of sunlight to support new growth.

Root ball of cactus loosened while being held with metal tongs and gloves

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

A sunny south- or west-facing windowsill is ideal for most cacti varieties.

A cactus should not be potted in regular potting soil.

Water your cactus once the soil has dried completely.

Cactus plant roots inspected for root rot and held by metal tongs closeup

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

Clay pot tipped over with fresh soil spilled out on wooden surface

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

Cactus held by metal tongs placed into larger orange clay pot

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows