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How to Repot Without Killing Your Plant

A step-by-step guide to moving your plant to a new home without the trauma. Timing, tools, and technique.

Repotting feels risky because it is — you're disturbing the root system and changing the growing environment. But with the right timing and technique, most plants bounce back within a week or two.

Key Points

check_circleThe best time to repot is early spring when growth is resuming

check_circleOnly go up one pot size (2 inches in diameter) — too much extra soil stays wet

check_circleWater the plant a day before repotting so roots are pliable, not brittle

check_circleDon't tease or trim healthy roots — only remove obviously dead or mushy ones

check_circleExpect a short adjustment period (7-14 days) where the plant may look slightly unhappy

What to Do

Choose a new pot 2 inches wider in diameter with at least one drainage hole

Water the plant the day before so the root ball holds together

Gently slide the plant out by tipping the pot sideways and supporting the base of the stems

Place 1-2 inches of fresh potting mix in the bottom of the new pot

Set the root ball in and fill around the sides with soil, pressing lightly — don't pack it tight

Water thoroughly and let it drain, then keep in the same light spot for recovery

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