Succulents are some of the most popular and low-maintenance houseplants available. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and they can thrive in a wide range of conditions. One of the most common problems that succulent owners face is when their plant outgrows its current pot. When a succulent becomes too big for its container, it can start to look unhealthy and overcrowded. Fortunately, replanting a succulent is a straightforward process that you can easily do at home. In this blog post, I’ll share with you the steps to take when replanting a succulent.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start replanting your succulent, you’ll need to gather the necessary supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
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A new pot: Choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the current one, as your succulent needs more space to grow. Make sure it has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
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Soil: Succulents need well-draining soil that allows air to circulate around the roots. You can buy special succulent soil mix, or make your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand, perlite, or gravel.
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Tools: You’ll need a pair of gloves to protect your hands from thorns or spines, a trowel or small shovel to dig the plant out of its current pot, and a brush to remove any excess soil from the roots.
Step 2: Prepare the New Pot
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to prepare the new pot. Start by filling it with a layer of soil, about one-third of the way up. This will help to anchor the succulent in place and prevent it from toppling over. Then, make a small hole in the center of the soil layer, deep enough to accommodate the root ball of your succulent.
Step 3: Remove the Succulent from its Current Pot
Now it’s time to remove the succulent from its current pot. Begin by gently squeezing the sides of the pot to loosen the soil. Then, carefully turn the pot upside down and gently tap the bottom to loosen the root ball. If the succulent is still stuck, you can use a trowel or small shovel to gently loosen the soil around the edges of the pot. Once the plant is loose, carefully lift it out of the pot.
Step 4: Remove Excess Soil from the Roots
Once you’ve removed the succulent from its current pot, it’s important to remove any excess soil from the roots. This will help to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged and suffocating the roots. Use a brush or your fingers to gently remove the soil, being careful not to damage the roots.
Step 5: Repot the Succulent
Now it’s time to repot the succulent in its new home. Place the plant in the center of the new pot, making sure that the root ball is at the same depth as it was in the previous pot. Then, fill in the space around the roots with soil, gently tamping it down to remove any air pockets. Be sure to leave about an inch of space between the soil level and the top of the pot to prevent water from overflowing.
Step 6: Water the Succulent
Once you’ve repotted the succulent, it’s time to give it a drink. Water the plant thoroughly, making sure that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Succulents are drought-tolerant, so be sure not to overwater them, as this can cause root rot.
Step 7: Place the Succulent in a Bright Spot
Finally, the best place to place a repotted succulent plant is in a bright spot that receives plenty of indirect sunlight. Most succulents prefer bright, indirect light, and placing them near a window with a sheer curtain or in a shaded outdoor area can provide the ideal conditions for their growth. However, it's important to avoid placing the succulent in direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day, as this can cause the plant to become sunburned and stressed.
Additionally, make sure that the plant is placed in an area with good airflow to prevent fungal growth and disease. Ultimately, the ideal location for a repotted succulent plant will depend on the specific species of succulent and the conditions in your home or outdoor space.