If you tend to kill your houseplants, this is why! And it’s probably not what you think. Overpotting is the most common way many indoor gardeners kill their houseplants. It’s really easy to fix. Find out how to have thriving houseplants.
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Today, I’m going to talk about the top reason people kill their houseplants. I often hear people say, “I always kill houseplants, there’s no point in trying.” But I’m here to tell you—it’s not you. The problem is likely overpotting.
A lot of people think they’re helping a plant by repotting it into a bigger container, but this can actually kill the plant. For example, I received a ZZ plant that was in a pot way too large. I took it out and repotted it into the correct size pot, which it’s currently thriving in.
What is the Right Pot Size?
Use the two-thirds rule:
Two-thirds of the total height should be plant.
One-third should be the pot.
Inside the pot, you also want:
Two-thirds root mass.
One-third soil.
So, more roots than soil, and more foliage than pot. That’s the secret.
Why Bigger Isn’t Better
Here’s a common mistake: someone gets a plant they love, and they immediately pot it into a large container, thinking it will grow faster and they won’t need to repot soon. Unfortunately, that big pot holds too much wet soil, which leads to root rot—and eventually, a dead plant.
I have a full series on root rot and how to deal with it, but ideally, you want to avoid it entirely. Overpotting not only harms your plant but also wastes money—larger pots are more expensive. Choosing the right size pot saves both your plant and your wallet.
Appearance and Growth
Plants look better in appropriately sized pots. In oversized pots, they appear short, stubby, and like they’re “swimming.” They won’t grow faster—in fact, they may stop growing or die slowly due to waterlogged roots.
My ZZ plant, for example, has grown six inches in just four months because it’s in the correct pot. When the plant reaches about three-quarters of the pot’s capacity, then it’s time to upgrade to a slightly larger pot—not a massive one.
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who “always” kills houseplants, this is probably the reason. Stick to the right pot size, and you’ll have much more success and joy with your indoor garden.
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Why Do I Keep Killing My Houseplants? The Truth About Pot Size
What is the number one reason people kill their houseplants?
The top reason is overpotting—using a pot that is too large, which leads to excess wet soil and root rot.
How do I choose the right pot size for my houseplant?
Use the two-thirds rule: two-thirds foliage to one-third pot height. Inside the pot, use two-thirds root mass to one-third soil.
Can a bigger pot help my plant grow faster?
No. A larger pot often holds too much soil and moisture, causing root rot. Plants grow faster in the correct-sized pot.
What are the signs that my plant is overpotted?
The plant may look small or “swimming” in the pot, stay the same size for a long time, or show signs of root rot like yellowing or drooping leaves.
When should I repot my plant into a larger container?
Repot when the plant’s root mass takes up about three-quarters of the current pot. Move up just one size—not to a significantly larger pot.
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