Revamped Tips for Succulent Repotting
Repotting Succulents Correctly: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to bring new life to your succulent collection? Get set to repot your little green friends! Cesario Gene Tobia, declared winner of the Philadelphia Flower Show's Rising Star Award in the horticulture category, and Britt Parrish, a renowned plant consultant and educator, have got your back with their top-notch tips on repotting succulents.
Here's what you need to know:
Timing is Everything
Succulents require less frequent repotting compared to other plants, but it's crucial to choose the right moment. "Ideally, repot your succulents during their active growth phase, generally in the spring," advises Tobia. Longer days and rising temperatures signal active growth, making it an optimal time for your succulent to bounce back quickly from the repotting process.
On the other hand, Parrish points out that early fall can also work well, as long as your succulent remains vigorous. Be wary of over-repotting, as too much of it might stress your plant out.
Signs it's Time to Repot
Don't worry; your succulent will let you know when it's due for a change of scenery. Pay attention to these signs:
- Slow or halted plant growth
- Roots protruding from the pot or poking above the soil line
- A generally unhealthy appearance
- Compacted, crusty, or non-absorbent soil
How to Repot in a Snap
Repotting doesn't have to be a daunting process. Follow these easy steps:
- Choose a slightly larger pot with drainage holes-terracotta or unglazed ceramic work great due to their porous properties-but be careful not to pick something too enormous, as massive containers might lead to root rot.
- Fill the new pot with a well-draining mix, such as store-bought cactus or succulent mix. You can also try blending store-bought cactus mix with perlite and pumice in a 2:1:1 ratio, and sprinkling a bit of slow-release fertilizer for an added boost. Remember to add pebbles at the bottom of the pot to aid drainage.
- Carefully remove your succulent from its old pot and gently shake off excess soil from the roots. Trim off any dead or broken roots and unwanted leaves.
- Place your beautifully refreshed succulent in the new pot, covering the roots with fresh potting mix, ensuring that the leaves remain above the soil to avoid rot. Let your succulent settle in before watering.
Aftercare
- Once your succulent is repotted, hold off on watering for a couple of days to allow the roots to heal.
- Tobia recommends delaying watering for a while post-repotting, while Parrish endorses bottom watering, or using a water bottle with a controlled spout to water from the base. Wait for the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Position your succulent in a bright, sunny spot or under a grow light, and keep an eye out for signs of dehydration such as wrinkly leaves.
And voila! With these pro tips, you'll soon be embarking on a fun-filled journey of green thumb success with your pampered-to-perfection succulents. Happy repotting!
Martha Stewart might suggest using a store-bought cactus or succulent mix for repotting, while also blending it with some perlite and pumice for better draining properties. Britt Parrish, a renowned plant consultant, advocates for bottom watering succulents after repotting by using a water bottle with a controlled spout to water from the base. Cesario Gene Tobia, the winner of the Philadelphia Flower Show's Rising Star Award in horticulture, suggests holding off on watering for a couple of days after repotting to allow the roots to heal.
