How To Repot a Plant

Repotting a plant is more than putting a plant in a pot. Not all plants belong in the same pot. Not all pots are adequate for all plants. Plastic, terracotta, cement, ceramic, wood? Many things to consider.

Growing a thriving plant depends on the soil and pot you choose for it. I am amazed at how many times I find a friend has a potted plant dying simply because the pot they have it in does not have a hole for drainage, the roots are rotting, and their watering schedule is off. A plant WILL tell you what it needs. You just have to observe it. Seeing roots emerge from drainage holes, roots emerge from the soil, and leaves and stems drop off all indicate that it is time to repot the plant. My assumption is that you have a great soil mix for your plant. I must, however, also share how to select the correct pot for the plant and how to create drainage in any container without a hole.

Before you repot, research the plants you will pot and what they prefer in terms of moisture, light, and pH balance. Then, according to meter readings, adjust the watering schedule, light exposure, and soil acidity. Give the plant a good watering a few days before you plan to repot it. This will help the plant have a heartier transition and loosen the roots from the walls of the old pot.

Select a potting container

Terracotta pots are always a happy home for plants because they absorb moisture and breathe with the plant. However, if the pot you choose is metal, plastic or ceramic glazed, ensure it has a hole at the bottom for proper drainage.

If your pot does not have a hole, you can easily drill one to allow water to drain properly and prevent roots from rotting or fungus and disease from developing. Use a drill bit that is appropriate for the material of your pot. Masonry bit for ceramic or terracotta. Metal bit for metal. Glass bit for glass. Acrylic or wood bit for plastic or resin. If you have to drill a hole in your pot:

• Find and mark the center point of your pot’s bottom. Place a couple of pieces of painter’s tape where you intend to drill to prevent chipping or cracking, especially in glass or ceramic.
• Drill through the bottom or turn it upside down and drill downward. Either way, ensure you have a sacrificial piece of wood supporting where you will drill through to prevent the drill from blowing out the material and creating any further damage to the pot.
• When drilling through glass, ceramics, terracotta, or plaster, add water to cool the bit and prevent the powder of the material from becoming airborne. If you are drilling through metal, a couple of drops of oil will do the same to lubricate the bit and material.