When your plant’s roots fill its container and begin growing out the bottom – it’s time to repot it, says the American Association of Nurserymen.
If you’re wondering what size the new pot should be, a good rule of thumb is one size larger than your current pot. For example, if you have a five-inch pot, pick up one that’s six inches. A pot that is too large can also cause problems. The extra space will of course accommodate excess soil, which will hold more water than the roots can absorb and cause root rot.
Garden pots are made of clay, ceramic, or plastic. To keep your plant as healthy as possible, be aware of the particular benefits and drawbacks of each kind.
Though breakable, pots made of clay provide excellent aeration for the roots. Because the containers’ porous walls take in and release moisture, plants in clay pots need more watering than those in plastic ones. With the extra water and porous walls, it’s a good idea to put plastic trays under clay pots-especially if you want to place the plants on a wood surface, such as a window sill. Be sure to check ceramic pots for a drainage hole; sometimes that feature is missing in these particular containers.
The increasingly popular plastic containers are cheaper and lighter than clay or ceramic pots. With much less porous walls, plastic pots cut down the watering needs. Another reason for the popularity is the pots are available in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes.
Repotting Steps
Here are some simple guidelines for getting your houseplant into a new pot and minimizing risks to its health as you do.
Make sure you choose a type of potting medium with good drainage as well as some water retention properties. Plain garden soil, which doesn’t contain amendments such as fertilizers, may clump together.
Put gravel or other drainage material into the bottom of the pot. Cover that layer with a layer of potting soil. To remove the plant, cover the soil with one hand with the plant between the fore and middle fingers. Holding the plant upside down, tap the edge of the container against a hard surface. This should loosen and knock it out of the pot.
If the plant is root bound, unwind circular and entwined roots as much as you can. If it’s impossible to untangle them, vertically cut them in several places, equidistant around the rootball, and lightly loosen the bound roots. This is called "butterflying."
Scoop the new soil to the sides of the pot to make a place for the rootball in the middle and put in the plant.
Fill in around the plant with soil but do not add soil above the original soil line.
To firm or settle the soil, gently tap the pot against the side of a table or use your fingers to lightly press the soil. Never pack the soil too lightly. Water well until excess water drains out of the pot.
About the Author:
I am a gardener who enjoys growing vegetables, herbs and flowers. I believe in using organic methods and products when gardening.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – How to repot houseplants