Room To Grow!

The Ultimate Guide to Repotting Your Houseplants 

Repotting is essential to keeping houseplants happy and healthy! Here, we’ll learn how to tell when it’s time to repot, why using high-quality soil like Berns Potting Soil makes all the difference, and how to give your plants the perfect new home. 

When Should You Repot Your Houseplants? 

Most houseplants need repotting every 12-18 months, though some slow growers can go even longer. Signs it’s time to repot include: 

• Roots growing through drainage holes – This indicates your plant is "root bound" and outgrowing its pot. 
• Slow or stunted growth – If your plant’s growth has slowed despite proper care, it might need a nutrient refresh through fresh soil. 
• Water sitting on top – Compacted soil can prevent water absorption, signaling it’s time for a fresh start. 
• Frequent wilting or drying out – If your plant dries out too quickly, a larger pot with new soil can help retain moisture. 

Best Soil for Repotting: Why Berns Potting Soil is Ideal 

Not all soil is created equal, and houseplants require a balanced mix to thrive. Berns Potting Soil is a great choice because it provides: 

• Optimal drainage – Prevents root rot by allowing excess water to flow out while retaining moisture for root absorption. 
• Nutrient-rich blend – Packed with organic material to nourish your plants. 
• Lightweight texture – Perfect for indoor plants, helping roots breathe and grow. 

Using high-quality soil reduces the need for frequent fertilizing, promotes healthier root systems, and prevents compaction, keeping your plants in top shape. 

How to Repot Your Houseplant 

1. Select the Right Pot – Choose a pot that’s about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Too large can lead to excess soil moisture, which could harm roots. 
2. Prepare the Soil – Fill the pot’s bottom with Berns Potting Soil to provide a fresh foundation. 
3. Remove the Plant Carefully – Gently loosen the plant from its pot, avoiding damage to the roots. 
4. Trim Any Damaged Roots – If you notice overly long or damaged roots, trim them to promote new, healthy growth. 
5. Place and Fill – Center the plant in its new pot, then fill in around it with fresh soil. Press down lightly to eliminate air pockets. 
6. Water Thoroughly – Water until it drains from the bottom, allowing the roots to settle into their new home. 

Examples: Popular Houseplants That Benefit from Repotting 

• Monstera Deliciosa – Known for its dramatic leaves, monstera grows quickly and benefits from annual repotting to encourage larger foliage. 
• Snake Plant – While slow-growing, snake plants eventually become root-bound, and repotting every 2-3 years keeps them upright and healthy. 
• Spider Plant – Spider plants produce “pups” that take up space. Repotting keeps the plant and its offspring thriving. 

Final Tips for Success 

Repotting is best done in spring, when plants naturally enter a growth phase, giving them time to adjust to their new surroundings. Using quality soil like Berns Potting Soil can provide lasting benefits, reducing stress on your plants and encouraging robust growth. If you're still not sure, take your plant for a carride to Berns Garden Center and we'll help!