As a Haworthia, I thrive in well-draining soil and prefer a snug pot. My roots are shallow and delicate, so repotting must be done with care. I grow slowly, so I only need repotting every 2-3 years or when my roots outgrow the current container. Signs I need repotting include roots poking out of drainage holes or soil drying too quickly after watering.
I prefer being repotted during my active growing season, which is spring or early summer. Avoid repotting me in winter when I’m dormant, as my roots won’t recover quickly. A warm, dry day is ideal to minimize stress and reduce the risk of root rot from excess moisture.
I need a pot slightly larger than my current one—about 1-2 inches wider in diameter. Terra cotta pots are great for me because they allow airflow and help soil dry faster. Ensure the pot has drainage holes! For soil, I love a mix of cactus/succulent potting soil with added perlite or pumice (50-70% inorganic material) to prevent water retention.
Water me lightly 1-2 days before repotting to make my roots more flexible. Gently tilt my current pot and tap the sides to loosen me. If I’m stubborn, use a chopstick to carefully free my roots. Avoid pulling me by the leaves—this can damage my delicate structure.
Once I’m out, shake off old soil and inspect my roots. Trim any dead, mushy, or overly long roots with sterilized scissors. Healthy roots are firm and white or light tan. Let my roots air-dry for a few hours to prevent rot when replanted.
Place a layer of fresh soil mix at the bottom of the new pot. Position me in the center, spreading my roots gently. Fill in around me with soil, leaving the base of my leaves just above the soil line. Don’t bury my leaves—this can cause rot! Tap the pot to settle the soil, but avoid compacting it too much.
Wait 5-7 days before watering me to let any root injuries heal. Place me in bright, indirect light for a week to avoid sunburn while I adjust. Resume normal watering gradually, ensuring the soil dries completely between sessions. Avoid fertilizing for at least a month to let me focus on root recovery.
I might look a bit wilted or stressed after repotting—this is normal! Watch for new growth, which means I’ve settled in. If my leaves shrivel or turn yellow, check for overwatering or insufficient light. Patience is key—I’ll reward you with healthy growth once I’m comfortable!
