From our perspective, the pot is our entire world. It is not just a container; it is the source of our stability, hydration, and nutrition. A pot that is too large for our root system presents a significant problem. The vast volume of soil holds moisture for a very long time, far outlasting the needs of our relatively small roots. This creates a perpetually wet environment around us, a condition we find suffocating and dangerous, as it invites root rot pathogens to attack and decay our foundation. Conversely, a pot that is too small feels like a straightjacket. Our roots become densely packed, circling and choking themselves, unable to access the water and nutrients we need to support our growing canopy above. This stunts our growth and causes us immense stress.
We thrive when you choose a new pot that is only 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than our current one. This incremental upgrade provides our root system with just enough new territory to explore and colonize without being overwhelmed by damp, unused soil. The pot's depth is equally important. We prefer a pot that is as tall as it is wide, giving our roots ample vertical space to anchor us firmly and grow downward. When repotting, please be gentle. Tease apart any tightly wound roots to encourage them to grow outward into their new home, but avoid aggressive cutting of healthy roots. This careful process minimizes our shock and allows us to establish ourselves quickly.
Perhaps even more critical than pot size is the issue of drainage. Our roots perform two vital functions: they absorb water and, crucially, they breathe. They require oxygen from the air pockets within the soil to perform respiration and create energy. Without this gas exchange, we effectively drown. Therefore, a pot must absolutely have drainage holes in the bottom. These holes are our lifeline, allowing excess water to escape after watering. This prevents water from pooling at the bottom of the pot, creating an anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment that is fatal to us. Never place a layer of gravel or rocks at the bottom of the pot; this does not improve drainage and instead raises the water table inside the pot, making the situation worse for our roots.
The soil you plant us in is the final, essential component of a healthy drainage system. A dense, heavy garden soil compacts over time, squeezing out those precious air pockets and holding far too much water. We require a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. Many growers find great success by amending a standard potting soil with ingredients like perlite, orchid bark, or coarse sand. These additives create permanent channels and spaces within the soil, ensuring that water flows through freely while simultaneously maintaining the structure and aeration we need. This perfect balance allows our roots to access water and then breathe, supporting a strong and vibrant plant above the soil.
