From a plant's point of view, repotting is a stressful but necessary process. Succulents, with their shallow and delicate root systems, are particularly sensitive to disturbance. Their roots are adapted to absorb water quickly and store it in their leaves, stems, or roots. When repotting, the goal is to minimize root damage to ensure the plant can continue thriving in its new environment.
Before moving the succulent, ensure the new pot has proper drainage and is filled with a well-draining soil mix. Succulents prefer gritty, porous soil that mimics their natural habitat. A mix of cactus soil with perlite or coarse sand (about 50/50) is ideal. From the plant's perspective, this ensures the roots won't sit in water, which can lead to rot.
To avoid root damage, tilt the pot sideways and tap the bottom to loosen the soil. If the succulent resists, use a blunt tool like a chopstick to gently loosen the edges. Avoid pulling the plant by its stem or leaves, as this can tear the roots. The plant "feels" this as a sudden shock, so a slow, careful approach is best.
Once the succulent is out, examine the roots. Healthy roots are firm and white or light tan. Gently shake off old soil, but don't aggressively wash or pull tangled roots. If there are dead or rotting roots (dark and mushy), trim them with sterile scissors. The plant will "appreciate" this pruning, as it redirects energy to healthy growth.
Create a small hole in the new soil mix and place the succulent inside, spreading the roots naturally. Avoid burying the stem too deep, as this can cause rot. The plant "prefers" to sit at the same depth as in its previous pot. Lightly press the soil around the base to stabilize it, but don't compact the soil too tightly—roots need air pockets to breathe.
After repotting, wait at least 3-5 days before watering to allow any damaged roots to heal. This prevents rot and gives the plant time to adjust. Place the succulent in bright, indirect light for a few days to reduce stress. From the plant's perspective, this gradual transition helps it acclimate without additional shock.
Watch for signs of distress, such as wilting, yellowing, or leaf drop. These are the plant's way of saying it's struggling. If this happens, reduce light exposure and avoid watering until the plant recovers. With patience, the succulent will settle into its new pot and resume healthy growth.
