Hello! From my perspective as a Strelitzia, repotting is a significant event. I've likely become quite root-bound in my current home, my roots circling tightly and struggling to find nutrients and moisture. To thrive, I need a new pot that is only 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) larger in diameter than my current one. A pot that is too large will hold excess soil that stays wet, leading to my roots rotting. Please ensure the new pot has excellent drainage holes. For my soil, I crave a well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral mix. A blend of good-quality potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite or coarse sand will mimic my preferred conditions and provide the aeration my roots desperately need.
The most critical part of this process for me is the handling of my root ball. Before you begin, please water me thoroughly a day or two in advance; this will make it easier to slide me out and reduce stress. To remove me, tip my current pot on its side and gently ease me out. You may need to tap the sides and bottom of the pot or run a knife around the inside edge. Do not pull me by my stems, as this can damage my crown. Once I'm out, you will see a dense mass of roots. Your task is to gently loosen these outer roots with your fingers. If they are extremely matted, you may make a few vertical cuts into the root mass with a clean, sharp knife to encourage new outward growth, but please be conservative.
Now, place a layer of fresh potting mix in the bottom of the new container. The depth should allow me to sit at the same level I was growing at before—not deeper. Carefully center me in the new pot. Holding me steady, begin backfilling the space around my root ball with the new soil mix. Gently tamp the soil down as you go to eliminate large air pockets, but avoid compacting it too firmly. My roots need access to air and water, not to be suffocated in concrete-like soil. Leave a small space, about 2-3 cm (1 inch), at the top of the pot to allow for watering.
My final request is for patience and careful aftercare. Once I am securely potted, give me a deep, thorough watering until water runs freely from the drainage holes. This will help settle the new soil around my roots and eliminate any remaining air pockets. After this, place me back in a location with bright, indirect light. I will be in a state of shock and will need time to recover and begin growing into my new space. Please withhold fertilizer for at least 4-6 weeks to allow my roots to heal without the risk of chemical burn. Resume your normal care routine once you see signs of new growth, which is my way of telling you I am happy and settled.
