From my roots outward, I can feel that my current pot is no longer sufficient. The soil, once rich and full of nutrients, has become compacted and tired. My roots have explored every inch of the available space, circling the bottom and sides of the container, becoming a dense, tangled mass. This "root-bound" state makes it difficult for me to drink water effectively; it either runs straight through or pools on top, leaving my deeper roots thirsty. My growth above the soil has slowed, and my leaves might not be as vibrant as they once were. This is my quiet way of asking for more space to grow. The best time to listen to this request is in the spring, as I am emerging from my winter rest and full of energy for new growth.
The process of being removed from my old pot can be stressful. Please be gentle. A day before you plan to move me, give me a thorough drink of water. This will help the soil hold together and protect my delicate root hairs from desiccation. When it's time, tip my current pot on its side and carefully slide me out. Do not pull me by my stems, as this can damage my woody base. If I am stubbornly stuck, you can gently squeeze the sides of a plastic pot or run a knife around the inside edge of a clay pot. The goal is to lift me out as a single, cohesive root ball, minimizing the shock to my system.
My new home should be only one to two inches larger in diameter than my old one. A pot that is too large will hold excess soil that stays wet for too long, which my roots despise and can lead to rot. The most critical feature of the new pot is excellent drainage; there must be holes in the bottom. Before placing me inside, cover these drainage holes with a piece of broken pottery or a small mesh screen to prevent soil from washing out. Then, add a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix. I thrive in a mix designed for herbs or cacti, often containing sand, perlite, or other gritty materials that ensure my roots are never waterlogged.
Place me gently in the center of the new pot on top of the layer of fresh soil. The top of my root ball should sit about an inch below the rim of the pot to allow for watering. Once I am positioned correctly, begin filling in the spaces around my root ball with the new potting mix. Gently firm the soil around me with your fingers to eliminate large air pockets, but please do not pack it down too tightly. My roots need access to air as much as they need water and nutrients. Leave a small space between the soil surface and the pot's rim to act as a reservoir when you water.
Now that I am in my new home, I need a deep, gentle watering to help settle the soil around my roots and ease the transition. Water me slowly until you see water beginning to flow out of the drainage holes. This ensures that the entire root ball has been moistened. After this initial watering, place me in a location with bright, indirect light for a few days. I have just undergone a significant change and need time to recover before being subjected to the full intensity of the sun. Please resist the urge to fertilize me immediately, as my new soil has plenty of nutrients and my roots are too sensitive for extra stimulation right now.
