Fresh Digs: How to Successfully Transplant Your Houseplants

Transplanting houseplants is like giving them a new lease on life—think of it as upgrading their home to a luxury suite! Whether your leafy friend is feeling cramped, outgrowing its pot, or simply needs a soil refresh, a good transplant can work wonders. Follow this fun and easy guide to help your plant thrive in its new digs.

Is It Time for a Move?

Not all plants need constant repotting, but here are some telltale signs your green buddy is ready for an upgrade:

• Roots are peeking out of the drainage holes or the soil’s surface like they're trying to escape.

• The plant dries out faster than your morning coffee disappears.

• It's looking sad and droopy despite your best efforts.

• The soil has seen better days—hello, compacted mess!

What You'll Need for Houseplant Transplanting

Gather these essentials before you start:

• A stylish new pot with drainage holes (only one or two inches bigger than the root ball—no mansion needed!)

• Fresh potting mix tailored to your plant’s needs

• Gloves (if you don't love getting dirt under your nails)

• A trowel or spoon for easy digging

• Clean pruning shears (for a little root touch-up, if needed)

• A watering can for that first refreshing drink

Step-by-Step Guide to a Happy Transplant

Step 1: Pick the Perfect New Home

Choose a pot with drainage holes—no one likes soggy feet! And don’t oversize it. A pot that's too big can lead to root rot, so go up just an inch or two bigger than the root ball. Come check out our pot supply, including a gorgeous collection from Momma Pots. 

We carry Rosy Soil in Verdant Plant Shop

Step 2: Prep the New Pot

Start with a layer of fresh soil at the bottom. If your plant prefers extra drainage, mix in some perlite or sand for that well-aerated, fluffy goodness. Choose a cactus-specific soil if your plant is a succulent or palm. We adore the houseplant and cactus mixes from Rosy Soil. Stop by the shop and pick some up today. You can also add some goodies to your soil to encourage root growth and prevent shock. We love We The Wild’s Enrich Powder and offer it in our shop.

Step 3: Gently Evict Your Plant

Tilt, tap, and wiggle the plant out of its old pot. If it’s being stubborn, run a trowel or butter knife around the edges to loosen things up. For very root-bound plants or those in odd-shaped pots, you might need to break the old container to free your plant.

Step 4: Root Check & Haircut

Loosen the old soil and take a peek at the roots. If they look black or mushy, use your sanitized shears to trim them off. And if you don’t want to go up a pot size, you can safely prune about a third of most plants’ roots and pop them back in the same pot.

Step 5: Settle Into the New Digs

Place your plant in the center of the new pot, ensuring the top of the root ball sits about an inch below the rim. Fill in around the roots with fresh soil. Tap or shimmy your pot to settle the soil and press gently to remove air pockets (but don’t pack it too tight!). 

Step 6: Give It a Drink

Water thoroughly to help the roots settle into their new home. Let excess water drain—no swampy situations allowed!

Aftercare: Keep the Vibes Right

• Location, location, location: Keep your plant in a familiar spot to reduce shock.

• Water wisely: Allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering—no drowning!

• Monitor for mood swings: Some droopiness is normal at first, but keep an eye out for prolonged wilting or yellow leaves.

By following these steps, your plant will have a smooth transition into its new space and reward you with fresh, happy growth. Now go forth and repot like a pro—your leafy friends will thank you!

Of course, if you don’t want to tackle your repotting yourself, let us do the dirty work. Contact us to schedule an appointment in the shop or a house call.