How to Repot a Succulent: Essential Tips for Success
How to Repot a Succulent?
To repot a succulent, start by choosing a pot that is 10% taller and wider for slow-growing succulents, and about 2 inches wider for faster-growing succulents.
Make sure the pot has large drainage holes and fill it with a porous, well-draining potting mix.
Before repotting, water the plant a day or two in advance to loosen the soil.
When repotting, gently loosen and remove as much soil as possible from the roots, trimming any dead or broken roots and removing dead leaves.
Ensure that the leaves are above the soil level to prevent rotting.
For succulent arrangements, choose a larger pot that is 10% taller and wider, separate entangled roots gently, and leave visibly damaged or diseased plants out of the arrangement.
When repotting thorny or spiny succulents, wear gloves for extra protection.
After repotting, wait a few days before watering and keep the newly repotted succulents in a shaded spot for a few days before exposing them to direct sun.
Wait a few weeks before fertilizing to allow them to adapt to the new soil.
Key Points:
- Choose a pot that is larger and taller than the current one by 10% for slow-growing succulents, and 2 inches wider for faster-growing succulents
- Ensure the pot has large drainage holes and fill it with a well-draining potting mix
- Water the plant a day or two before repotting to loosen the soil
- Gently remove soil from the roots when repotting, trimming any dead or broken roots and removing dead leaves
- Position the leaves above the soil level to prevent rotting
- Wear gloves when repotting thorny or spiny succulents for extra protection
- Wait a few days before watering and a few more days in the shade after repotting
- Wait a few weeks before fertilizing to allow the succulents to adapt to the new soil
Did You Know?
1. Contrary to what many believe, succulents don’t actually need a bigger pot every year. In fact, they prefer snug living quarters as it helps promote better root growth and prevents soil from staying too moist.
2. When repotting a succulent, it is essential to choose a well-draining soil mix. A popular homemade recipe includes combining regular potting soil with coarse sand and pumice or perlite to enhance drainage and prevent overwatering.
3. Some succulents, like the Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’, have a natural defense mechanism called ‘stress coloring.’ When exposed to intense sunlight or extreme weather conditions, the leaves of these succulents turn darker to protect themselves from damage.
4. To propagate a succulent, you can cut off a healthy leaf and simply place it on dry soil. Over time, it will develop roots and a baby plant, creating a whole new succulent from just one leaf!
5. Succulents are masters at water conservation and can survive in arid environments. Their leaves and stems have adapted to store water, allowing them to thrive in drier climates with minimal watering requirements.
Repotting Succulents When They Outgrow Their Current Pots
Succulents are known for their ability to thrive in small pots, but there comes a time when they outgrow their current homes. When succulents start to look cramped and their roots begin to show through the drainage holes, it’s time to repot them. Repotting is essential for the well-being of the succulent, as it allows the roots to spread out and access more nutrients.
To repot a succulent that has outgrown its current pot, start by choosing a new pot that is about 10% taller and wider than the current one. This will provide enough space for the succulent to grow comfortably. Before repotting, water the plant a day or two in advance to moisten the soil and make it easier to remove from the old pot.
When removing the succulent from its old pot, gently loosen the soil around the roots. It’s important to be careful not to damage the roots or break any of the stems. Once the succulent is free from its old pot, remove as much of the old soil as possible without harming the roots. This will help prevent the plant from becoming root-bound and will allow it to establish itself in the new pot more easily.
– Choose a new pot that is about 10% taller and wider than the current one.
- Water the plant a day or two before repotting to moisten the soil.
- Gently loosen the soil around the roots when removing the succulent from its old pot.
- Remove as much of the old soil as possible without harming the roots.
Repotting Succulents With Pests Or Diseases
If you notice pests or diseases on your succulent, it’s crucial to repot it immediately to prevent further infestation or spread of the disease. Signs of infestation or disease include discoloration, stunted growth, webbing, and wilting leaves.
To repot a succulent with pests or diseases, follow the same steps as when repotting a healthy succulent. However, before placing the succulent in the new pot, inspect the roots and foliage thoroughly. Remove any visible pests or diseased parts, such as dead leaves or infected stems. If necessary, you can use a gentle insecticide or fungicide to treat the succulent before repotting.
Wearing gloves is highly recommended when handling infested or diseased succulents, as some pests or diseases can be harmful to humans. Additionally, use a potting mix that is free from pathogens to minimize the risk of reinfection.
Repotting Succulents With Poor Drainage
Proper drainage is crucial for the health of succulents, as they are prone to root rot if their roots sit in waterlogged soil for extended periods. If you notice that your succulent’s current pot does not have adequate drainage, it’s important to repot it into a container with better drainage.
When repotting a succulent with poor drainage, choose a new pot with large drainage holes on the bottom. Additionally, opt for a porous and well-draining potting mix specifically designed for succulents. These types of potting mixes typically contain sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage.
To repot the succulent, follow the same steps as when repotting a healthy succulent. Make sure to remove as much of the old soil as possible to prevent water from pooling around the roots.
In the new pot, fill the bottom with a layer of small rocks or gravel to further enhance drainage. Then, add the succulent and fill in the remaining space with the well-draining potting mix. Ensure that the soil level is below the rim of the pot to prevent water from overflowing when watering.
Repotting Leaning Or Toppling Over Succulents
To repot a leaning or toppling over succulent, follow these steps:
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Choose a new pot that is wider and heavier than the current one. The extra width will provide more stability, and the increased weight will help anchor the succulent in place.
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Water the succulent a day or two in advance to make it easier to handle during repotting.
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When removing the succulent from its old pot, be careful not to damage the delicate stems or leaves. Gently shake off any excess soil from the roots, being mindful not to break any healthy roots.
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Once the succulent is free from its old pot, place it in the new pot, ensuring that it stands upright.
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Fill the surrounding space with a well-draining potting mix, gently pressing the soil to secure the succulent in place.
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Make sure that the plant is stable and that the soil level is slightly below the rim of the pot to prevent water from overflowing.
Remember, repotting leaning succulents is necessary for better stability and to prevent further leaning or toppling.
Repotting Succulents With Offsets Or Babies
One of the joys of growing succulents is the ability to propagate them from offsets or “babies.” These young succulents often appear as small plantlets growing around the base of the mother plant. When these offsets or babies are large enough, it’s important to repot them to ensure their healthy growth and development.
To repot succulents with offsets or babies, start by selecting a new pot that is 10% taller and wider than the current pot. This will provide enough space for the new plant to grow and establish its root system.
Before removing the offset or baby succulent, water the mother plant a day or two in advance. This will help loosen the soil and make it easier to separate the offset without causing damage.
Gently remove the offset or baby succulent from the mother plant by carefully detaching it from its stem or gently digging around its base. It’s important to be cautious during this process to avoid tearing or injuring the delicate roots.
Once the offset is free, remove any excess soil from its roots and plant it in the new pot. Fill the surrounding space with a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the soil level is slightly below the rim of the pot.
- Select a new pot that is 10% taller and wider than the current pot
- Water the mother plant a day or two in advance to loosen the soil
- Gently detach the offset from the mother plant to avoid damaging roots
- Remove excess soil from the offset’s roots before planting
- Fill the new pot with well-draining potting mix and ensure the soil level is slightly below the rim of the pot.
Repotting Succulents In Spring Or Early Fall
Timing is crucial when it comes to repotting succulents. The ideal time to repot them is in the spring or early fall, just before their peak growing season. Repotting during these seasons allows the succulents to establish themselves in their new pots before experiencing vigorous growth.
During the spring or early fall, succulents are naturally more active, and their roots are more receptive to being disturbed. This makes it easier for them to adjust to their new pots and encourages speedy root development.
Avoid repotting succulents during their dormant period or when they are in bloom. Repotting during dormancy can interrupt their natural rest and may result in stress or stunted growth. Similarly, repotting while in bloom can disrupt the blooming process and cause the flowers to wilt prematurely.
By following the recommended timing, you can ensure the success of your succulents’ repotting process and promote their overall health and vitality.
Tips for Timing Succulent Repotting:
- Repot in the spring or early fall
- Avoid repotting during dormancy or when in bloom
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you repot a succulent for beginners?
To repot a succulent for beginners, start by preparing a new pot with fresh potting soil. Dig a shallow hole in the soil and carefully place your succulent in it, ensuring that the roots are covered. It’s important to avoid covering the leaves or letting them rest on top of the soil. Gently add more potting soil to stabilize the plant and reach the base, providing necessary support for healthy growth. With this simple method, beginners can repot their succulents with ease.
When should succulents be repotted?
It is best to repot succulents every two years to ensure their optimal growth and health. The ideal time to do so is at the beginning of the growing season, which usually falls in the early spring or fall. This timing allows the succulents to adjust to their new environment and establish their root system before entering periods of active growth. By repotting during these seasons, you provide them with the best conditions for thriving and displaying their extraordinary beauty.
How do I replant a succulent?
To replant a succulent, carefully loosen the soil around the plant using a trowel, making sure not to damage the roots. Gently remove any excess soil from the roots. Then, transfer the succulent to a new pot filled with a mixture of sand, pebbles, and a soil blend that is suitable for the specific type of succulent you are replanting. This will provide the necessary nutrients and encourage new growth for your succulent.
Do succulents need sun?
Yes, succulents require sun to thrive. They thrive in bright, direct light and require a minimum of 6 hours of natural sunlight on a daily basis. However, if you lack a sunny spot in your home, you can opt for succulents such as mother-in-law tongue that can adapt to low-light conditions. Placing them near a south or east-facing window can provide them with the necessary light they need to survive and grow healthily.