Over time, the plant grows, the roots take up space and the soil becomes impoverished. In this article, we will demystify repotting and try to answer your questions.
When?
The best time is in the spring or during the summer. It is at this time that the plant is in the vegetative stage, that is to say in growth. In autumn and winter the plants are slowed down or even dormant, which is why repotting should be avoided.
When you gently pull out the clod of soil and the roots have taken up most of the space, it's time to repot.
The maturity of the plant will also dictate repotting frequencies. As a general rule, we will do this once a year. Young growing plants will require a higher frequency and mature plants a more spaced frequency.
What container?
You will need to choose a slightly larger pot, about 1 to 2 inches larger for plants under 12 inches and 2 to 4 inches for those over 12 inches.
The pot should have one or more drainage holes to allow excess water to flow out. Don't forget to put an undercut to avoid damaging your floor or your furniture. You can opt for a beautiful decorative planter, but don't forget to empty the excess water that could accumulate there.
Generally, we will opt for a plastic or varnished terracotta container. On the other hand, certain plants such as cacti, succulents and citrus fruits will appreciate unglazed terracotta pots for their porosity. These promote aeration of the roots, dry faster and are heavier for better stability.
What substrate?
First, it is absolutely necessary to avoid black soil which is poor and garden soil because it contains undesirables for the interior.
As a general rule, all-purpose, potting, and houseplant soils will work for the majority of houseplants . Favor substrates containing mycorrhizae. These are beneficial fungi, which will evolve in symbiosis with the plant providing it with more nutrients and water.
For cacti and succulents, we will use a so-called cactus soil. It contains, among other things, sphagnum peat, perlite and sand. It is a highly porous, draining soil that retains the humidity necessary for these plants.
Some plants are called epiphytes, that is to say they grow on any support such as a tree trunk. They will then need a very airy and draining substrate. We can think here of orchids and bromeliads . Potting soils specially for these plants are sold everywhere. It is mainly composed of coconut shavings and or bark.
Plants like monsteras and philodendrons, to name a few, are said to be hemiepiphytes. They develop in the ground and on a support such as a tree. We will then choose a nutritious and draining soil with good porosity. The roots hate stagnant water and appreciate good oxygenation.
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