Fresh Start: Repotting for Beginners
Like many new house plant enthusiasts, I have developed a collection of low-maintenance plants, but the time has come when maintenance is needed. My collection is thriving, so naturally, I’ve been nervous to disrupt it. After many conversations about my apprehension of repotting with Emily (your editor for this newsletter) she convinced me to take a trip to the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse. I learned, and took notes to share with you:
Before we start, how do you know if your plant needs to be repotted? Are roots growing out of the drainage hole? Is your pot tipping over because your plant has gotten so big? Has it just been a while since you planted it? If you answered yes to one of these questions, it is time. Penny, my pothos, was still in her original plastic container and I was looking forward to putting her in a more stylish pot. So, whatever your reason, let’s get started.
My colleague Ian Wilhite, Greenhouse Horticulturist and Orchid Specialist, who has been in the horticulture industry for 16 years had a lot of helpful tips and tricks that made me more comfortable with giving my plants a new home, and I hope this will help you, too.
Before you begin:
Pick a new pot
· Drainage
The most important feature of your pot is a drainage hole. Don’t skip the drainage hole.
· Size matters (sorta)
Choose a pot that is just slightly larger than your existing one. You want room to grow, but the fit should still be snug. I say ‘sorta’ because Ian mentioned that my new pot was a little bigger than what he’d normally recommend when sizing up, but we went ahead anyway.
He said he likes for the old pot to fit into the new pot with about a centimeter of room between the pots.
· Materials matter
· Terracotta pots are Ian’s favorite and what he recommends, especially for beginners. They look nice, are affordable, and come in every size imaginable.
· Glazed pots are another popular option. I used a glazed pot for the demonstration. They hold moisture against the roots. That could be a pro if you are not a frequent waterer, but if you are an eager waterer, take it easy in a glazed pot.
Choose the right soil. All-purpose potting soil from your local garden store will usually work. You can also get perfect potting soil in the Museum & Garden Shop. For Penny, we used PRO-MIX high porosity (HP) mix and added little bit of orchid mix at the base to provide extra drainage.
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get our hands dirty.
Step 1: Start with a clean surface and get all your supplies in one area.
TIP: Ian suggested laying down butcher paper on your workstation for easy cleanup.
When you are done repotting just wrap up the extra dirt and recycle!
Step 2: Gently remove your plant from its current pot. Be firm but gentle.
This is the scariest part, but it gets easier with practice.
Step 3: Make sure there are no bugs!
TIP: If you find bugs, make a diluted alcohol or soapy water mix (not antibacterial soap!).
Dip a Q-Tip in the mixture and gently wipe off the bugs.
Step 4: Add soil. Start with a layer on the bottom of your new pot then gently set your plant on top. Next, add soil around the plant until it sits firmly in the pot.
Step 5: Water your plant thoroughly.
It’s okay if a little soil comes out of the pot.
That’s it! Penny is back home enjoying her new glazed ceramic pot. It really is that simple. The most important and helpful tip Ian shared was that the best way to learn is through trial and error. So, if at first you don’t succeed, dust yourself off and try again.
If this has piqued your interest and you are ready for a hands-on experience with the experts, bring a friend and attend a class in the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse. Prices vary depending on the class. All materials are provided, and you’ll be able to take your new plant home with you.
Spring 2023 Greenhouse Classes
Saturday, April 1 / 10–11:30 AM
Thursday, April 6 / 6–8 PM
Thursday, April 13 / 6–7:30 PM
Saturday, April 15 / 10–11:30 AM
Full Circle Wreaths with Air Plants and an Orchid
Sunday, April 23 / Noon–2 PM
Thursday, April 27 / 6–7:45 PM
Image Credits:
Exterior view of the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse.