Why Early Spring is the Perfect Time to Repot Your Houseplants
As the days get longer and the sun shines a little brighter, your houseplants sense the change in season and start waking up from their winter rest. Early spring is the best time to give them a fresh start by repotting! Whether your plant has outgrown its pot or just needs a boost, repotting in early spring sets it up for a season of healthy growth.
Why Repot in Early Spring?
- Active Growth Season Ahead – Most houseplants enter their active growing phase in spring and summer. Repotting now gives them fresh soil and room to grow just as they start putting out new roots and leaves.
- More Sunlight & Warmth – With more natural light and warmer temperatures, plants recover quickly from the stress of repotting. They adjust faster and take advantage of ideal conditions to establish themselves.
- Fresh Nutrients – Over time, soil loses its nutrients and compacts, making it harder for roots to absorb water and food. A fresh mix replenishes essential nutrients and improves drainage, promoting healthier roots.
- Prevents Root Bound Plants – If your plant is struggling with slow growth, yellowing leaves, or roots poking out of the drainage hole, it’s likely root bound. Giving it more space early in the season allows it to thrive.
Signs Your Houseplant Needs Repotting
Not every plant needs repotting every year, but here are a few signs it’s time:
- Roots growing out of the drainage hole or pushing the plant up out of the pot.
- Soil dries out very quickly, even after watering.
- The plant has become top-heavy or has stunted growth.
- White mineral buildup on the soil surface (a sign of old, depleted soil).
How to Repot Your Houseplant in 5 Simple Steps
- Choose the Right Pot – Pick a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Make sure it has drainage holes to prevent overwatering issues.
- Prep Your Plant – Water your plant a day before repotting to help reduce transplant shock. Gently remove it from its pot, loosening the roots if they’re tightly wound.
- Refresh the Soil – Use a high-quality potting mix suited to your plant’s needs. For example, cacti and succulents prefer a well-draining mix, while tropical plants love a moisture-retentive blend.
- Repot with Care – Place a layer of fresh soil at the bottom of the new pot, set your plant in the center, and fill in around the roots with more soil. Leave about an inch of space at the top for watering.
- Water & Adjust – Give your plant a gentle watering to help settle the soil. Avoid fertilizing for about two weeks to allow roots to adjust.
Bonus Tip: Be Gentle!
After repotting, your plant may look a little droopy or shocked. That’s normal! Keep it in a spot with bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering while it acclimates to its new home.
Enjoy a Season of Growth!
Repotting in early spring gives your houseplants the best chance to grow strong and lush throughout the warmer months. With fresh soil, more space, and a little TLC, your plants will thank you with vibrant foliage and healthy growth all season long, check out our online store for all your repotting needs. Got any questions? Come visit us at any of our 7 locations and ask our knowledgeable greenhouse staff, where we can even repot for you!