Succulents are generally straightforward to transplant. Simply turn the pot upside-down and gently ease out the plant.
Repotting succulents may be necessary when they outgrow their current container or when their soil becomes too compacted for proper drainage. Furthermore, changing to one more suitable for succulents is also recommended.
Choose the Right Pot
Succulents thrive when planted in containers that fit their size and style perfectly, from single succulents to entire succulent gardens. Finding containers suitable to your plants health is an essential component of their wellbeing.
Terra cotta or ceramic pots make ideal containers for succulents as these materials allow air and water drainage, and allow for proper air circulation. However, they tend to become heavy when loaded up with soil and succulents, so for easier transport consider plastic or resin options instead.
Choose a container that doesn't exceed its capacity; otherwise it will restrict your succulent's roots and stunt its development, possibly leading to root rot or other issues. Drainage holes must also be included as these protect the roots against waterlogging causing lasting damage; plus proper drainage ensures moister retention which allows succulents to flourish healthily in their new pots.
Loosen the Soil
One sure sign your succulent needs a new pot is when its roots overtake its current container, leading to unsightly overgrowth and potential stability issues or snapped-off stems. Another telltale indicator would be compacted soil that no longer allows moisture to reach its roots.
Transplanting succulents should take place during their active growth stage in spring. Before starting digging, loosen the soil in its old container by gently shaking or tapping on it with either your hands or small gardening shovel to loosen its roots from their current home.
As soon as a pot is full of succulents, an appropriate layer of potting soil should be added. Regular potting soil often holds too much water, leading to root rot. A top dressing of pebbles, colored rocks or moss may add visual interest and help prevent leaves from resting directly on damp soil, potentially reducing leaf rot risk.
Remove the Plant
Succulents may require new pots for various reasons: when their root systems become overgrown; when their containers no longer meet their needs; when their soil depletes; or after insects or the elements cause damage.
No matter the cause, succulents require immediate repotting in order to remain healthy and strong. Repotting also gives you a close-up view of their root system, helping you identify potential issues like mealybug infestation or root rot before they become serious issues.
Choose a pot that's about 10 percent taller and wider than your old one, then fill it to about two centimeters below the rim with gritty, well-draining succulent soil. After placing your succulent inside its new home, continue filling until only its roots are covered - any covering of its stem could damage its vitality!
Place the Plant in the New Pot
When repotting succulents, use a pot that is larger than their old one and made of porous material to ensure proper airflow and drainage holes for water logging and root rot prevention. Use soil mix specifically tailored for succulents and cacti or create your own soil blend to reduce stress on roots.
Before watering again, allow the succulent some time to settle and callous over before doing so. This will prevent bacteria or fungus from invading its roots and leading to infections.
Tammy Sons, CEO of TN Nursery, notes there are various indicators a succulent may require repotting, including when its container becomes too large, growth slowing or stopping altogether, brown areas around its roots becoming evident and soil drying out faster or needing frequent watering due to depleted nutrients - replacing soil can provide new sources of nourishment and better drainage.
