Find out what you need to do to prepare to repot your houseplant. Discover the various things to do before you repot your houseplant so that it thrives once you repot it. These tasks include cleaning the pot and sterilizing it, if necessary. Getting the soil ready for repotting, too.
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Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we teach you everything about gardening and the great indoors. Today’s video is part 4 of our repotting series: Preparing to Repot. You will find our Amazon affiliate link in the comments below, along with links to all related videos in this series.
Before repotting, one of the most important steps is to water the plant. Meet Marvin, the star of this repotting series. Since he clearly needs repotting, we begin by watering him thoroughly. Watering 15–20 minutes before repotting is ideal, though watering the day before is even better. Moistening the root zone helps the plant take in water and also keeps the roots from drying out when exposed to air.
Never leave roots exposed for more than five minutes, especially in hot weather, dry climates, or when heating or air-conditioning is running.
After watering, place the plant aside and begin preparing the new pot. I chose a terracotta pot for this repot, but terracotta dries out faster because it is porous. If moisture retention is a concern, you can apply a clay pot sealer to slow moisture loss. Be sure to follow all drying and curing instructions before use. Glazed ceramic pots hold moisture better, and plastic is the most water-retentive option.
The pot should always have a drainage hole. I like to cover the hole with drywall tape or screening to keep soil in place while still allowing water to drain. If reusing a pot that previously held a plant with root rot or disease, sterilize it in a mixture of nine parts water to one part bleach for at least 30 minutes.
Next, prepare the soil. Dry soil should always be moistened before repotting. Dry soil will sink significantly after watering, leaving too little soil in the pot. Moisten the soil until it holds together lightly but does not drip water. This is also the perfect time to mix in soil amendments such as pumice for better drainage, worm castings for nutrients, or organic fertilizers containing ingredients like alfalfa meal, humic acid, or mycorrhizae. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even nutrient distribution.
Once your soil is moist and well-mixed, your pot is clean and prepared, and your plant is hydrated, you are ready to begin the repotting process in the next video.
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Repotting Preparation FAQ
Why should I water my plant before repotting?
Watering 15–20 minutes beforehand keeps the roots hydrated, prevents drying during repotting, and helps the plant recover more easily.
Can I leave a plant’s roots exposed while repotting?
No. Roots should not be exposed for more than five minutes, especially in hot or dry conditions, to prevent stress and dehydration.
Do terracotta pots dry out faster?
Yes. Terracotta is porous and allows moisture to escape. Using a clay pot sealer can help reduce moisture loss.
How do I sterilize a pot that previously had root rot?
Soak the pot in a solution of nine parts water and one part bleach for at least 30 minutes to kill bacteria and fungi.
Why should I moisten soil before repotting?
Pre-moistened soil prevents sinking after watering and ensures even hydration, making repotting easier and less messy.
What soil amendments can I add before repotting?
Common additions include pumice for drainage, worm castings for nutrients, and organic fertilizers with ingredients like mycorrhizae or alfalfa meal.
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