From our perspective, the optimal time for this significant move is during our dormant period, typically in late winter or very early spring before our new growth surge begins. At this time, our energy is conserved within our roots and main stems, not expended on flowering or producing vast amounts of foliage. Being repotted while dormant is far less shocking to our system. It allows us to focus all our energy on establishing new roots in the fresh environment you provide, rather than struggling to maintain existing blooms and leaves. If you must repot while we are actively growing, choose a cool, cloudy day to minimize transplant shock and stress from the sun.
We will communicate our need for a new home. Look for our roots emerging from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot; this is a clear cry for help, indicating we are root-bound. You might also notice that water runs straight through the container without being absorbed, meaning the root mass has taken over all available soil. Other signs include slowed growth, a need for constant watering, or a general decline in our vigor despite proper care. These are all pleas for a larger space to support our continued health.
Please be gentle. Tipping the current pot on its side and carefully sliding us out is the best approach. Avoid pulling us by our stems, as this can cause severe damage. Once we are out, observe our root ball. If our roots are circling tightly, you must carefully tease them apart with your fingers. This might feel harsh, but it is crucial. It breaks the cycle of circular growth and encourages our roots to spread outward into the new soil in search of water and nutrients. For extremely pot-bound plants, you may need to make a few shallow, vertical cuts into the root mass with a clean knife to stimulate new root growth.
Our new pot should be only 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the old one. A pot that is too large is a danger to us; the excess soil holds too much moisture, which our roots cannot absorb, leading to root rot and suffocation. The most critical feature is excellent drainage holes. Before placing us inside, prepare a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. We despise having "wet feet." You can create an ideal mix by using a standard potting soil amended with perlite or coarse sand to ensure it remains loose and aerated, providing our roots with the oxygen they desperately need.
Place a layer of fresh soil in the bottom of the new pot. Position our root ball in the center so that the top of it sits about an inch below the pot's rim, allowing space for watering. Fill in the spaces around the sides with your prepared soil mix, gently firming it down to eliminate large air pockets. Do not pack it too tightly. The final step is a thorough, gentle watering. This is essential to settle the soil around our roots and help us make initial contact with our new medium. Water until it runs freely from the drainage holes, then place us in a sheltered, slightly shaded location for a few days to recover from the move before returning us to our preferred sunny spot.
