Potting · Field notes

Repot with a plan

Prepare the workspace before the plant leaves its pot.

Gather a clean pot, suitable growing mix, a tray and scissors before beginning. Look for evidence that repotting is needed, such as crowded roots or a mix that has broken down, rather than repotting every new arrival immediately. Consider the plant species and the season when deciding on timing.

Ease the plant out while supporting the root ball. Inspect roots and remove clearly dead material with clean tools. Keep the planting depth appropriate to the species and avoid burying stems that previously sat above the mix. Water according to the needs of the plant and the condition of the new mix, then monitor its recovery without making several other changes at once.

Care requirements vary by species and growing conditions. Use these notes as a starting point for observation.