How to Repot a Houseplant Without Killing It

Repot your houseplant when roots circle the pot bottom or growth slows, using fresh potting soil and a container one size larger to give roots room to grow without overwhelming the plant.

  1. Spot the Outgrown Plant. Look for roots growing through drainage holes, circling the soil surface, or coming out the top. Your plant might also be drying out faster than usual or showing stunted growth despite good care. Spring is the best time to repot when plants are entering their growing season.
  2. Pick One Size Up. Pick a pot that's only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Going too big creates excess soil that holds too much water and can rot the roots. Make sure your new pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
  3. Hydrate Roots First. Water your plant thoroughly 2-3 days before repotting. This keeps the roots hydrated but not soggy, making them easier to handle without breaking. Avoid repotting bone-dry or freshly watered plants.
  4. Slide It Out Gently. Turn the pot upside down while supporting the plant stem with your fingers. Gently tap the bottom until the plant slides out. If it's stuck, run a knife around the edges or gently squeeze flexible pots to loosen the root ball.
  5. Untangle and Prune Roots. Gently tease apart circled or matted roots with your fingers. Trim any black, mushy, or dead roots with clean scissors, but leave healthy white or light-colored roots alone. Remove old soil from around the roots, especially if it's compacted or smells sour.
  6. Nestle Into Fresh Soil. Put a layer of fresh potting mix in the new pot, then place your plant so the top of the root ball sits about an inch below the rim. Fill around the roots with more soil, gently pressing to eliminate air pockets without compacting too hard.
  7. Water and Let It Recover. Water slowly until it drains from the bottom, which helps settle the soil around roots. Add more potting mix if needed to fill any gaps. Place the plant in bright, indirect light and avoid fertilizing for at least a month while it adjusts to its new home.