From my perspective, the need for a new pot is not about a calendar date but about how I feel in my current space. My roots are my entire world, and when they become cramped, I cannot thrive. You will know I am ready when you see my roots growing out of the drainage holes at the bottom of my pot, or when they are so densely packed that water rushes straight through the soil without being absorbed. You might also notice that my growth has significantly slowed, even during my growing season, because I simply have no more room to expand. The soil might also look old, degraded, and depleted of nutrients, making it difficult for me to access the food and moisture I need.
The absolute best time to move me is in the late winter or early spring, just after I have finished my magnificent blooming cycle. This timing is crucial. I have just expended a tremendous amount of energy to produce those beautiful flowers, and I am naturally entering a period of rest and recovery. Repotting me at this stage allows me to focus my energy on establishing new roots in my fresh home without the simultaneous stress of supporting blooms or preparing to bud. It gives me the entire growing season ahead to settle in and strengthen. Please avoid repotting me in the fall or early winter, as this is when I am concentrating all my efforts on developing flower buds; disturbing me then could cause me to drop them.
To make this a positive experience, please be gentle. First, carefully lift me out of my old pot. You may need to tap the sides to loosen my root ball. Do not pull me by my stems, as I am quite fragile. Once I am free, gently tease apart the outer roots with your fingers. You are not trying to untangle everything, just to encourage them to grow outward into their new space. If the roots are extremely tight, you can make a few shallow, vertical cuts into the sides of the root mass to stimulate new growth. Shake off about a third of the old, exhausted soil to make room for the new, nutritious mix.
My new pot is very important. I despise having wet feet, so excellent drainage is non-negotiable. Choose a new container that is only one size larger, about 1-2 inches wider in diameter than my old one. A pot that is too large will hold excess moisture around my roots, which will make me rot and suffer. A pot with a drainage hole is a must. As for my bed, I crave a light, airy, and well-draining potting mix. A blend designed for succulents or cacti is perfect, or you can make your own by mixing standard potting soil with perlite or orchid bark. This ensures my roots get the oxygen they need and are never left sitting in water.
Place a little of the fresh soil in the bottom of the new pot. Then, set me gently on top, centering me. Fill in the spaces around my roots with the new soil mix, tapping the pot occasionally to settle it and eliminate large air pockets. Do not pack the soil down too firmly. Once I am secure, wait for about a week before giving me a thorough watering. This pause allows any tiny, unavoidable root injuries to callus over, protecting me from rot. After this initial period, you can resume your normal care routine, and I will reward your kindness with strong, healthy growth in the seasons to come.
