With the weather getting warmer your houseplants will be bursting out of their pots to grow. To provide them with the best head start we have put together our top tips for repotting your beloved plants:

  • It is worth noting that cactus, succulents, citrus and orchid plants all require specialist composts which we sell in store. This compost caters for their individual needs, providing them with the correct PH level, drainage, and nutrients. Average garden compost isn’t ideal as it retains too much water for most houseplants.
  • Always try to repot during dormancy in early spring as this causes less stress upon the plant.
  • When repotting, remove the plant gently from its existing pot, dust off any old compost from the surrounding roots and check for pests, disease and root rot. If needed, trim back rotten roots. Remove any dead or dying foliage and flowers and prune the plant if needed.
  • If the old soil smells eggy then the plant has been over watered and ensure less frequent watering going forward.
  • Don’t fill with compost right to the top of the pot as this makes watering hard. Instead, stop 2cm from the top.
  • Once all the compost is in, and the plant is fully repotted, gently press down around the plant to provide support. Consider using a cane if the stem feels heavy or is weighted to one side.
  • Gently wipe each leaf with a damp cloth to remove any dust. When doing so, support the underside of the leaf to prevent breakage.
  • Always water the plant once it has been repotted before letting it settle into its new home.
  • To reduce the occurrence of fungus gnats, top dress the soil with alpine grit or a decorative gravel. This creates an impenetrable layer that the gnats cannot burrow through, meaning they can’t lay their eggs in the soil. Alternatively, use a coir-based houseplant compost that the gnats will not be attracted to in the first place.

If you would like to know more about these specialist composts or would like further aid with your houseplant repotting, pests or diseases speak to our knowledgeable houseplant team for more information.

Sarah
Houseplant Manager at Castle Gardens