Some potting soil (equivalent to 1/2 the pot volume)

Some drainage materials (gravel or sand)

Any fertilizers

A good-sized serrated knife

Some newspapers to cover the floor

Optional:

Some gardening gloves

15 minutes

2torial #0517: Learn2 Repot a Houseplant Time to move on? You wouldn't enjoy sleeping in a crib, but you expect your plants to grow big and beautiful while squatting in a pot from their childhood. The restrictions of cramped pot life can dry a plant's roots, sending them down through the bottom of the pot or up to the topsoil which makes for stunted or choked greenery. There are two solutions to this travesty: the first is repotting, which involves removing the plant and replacing the potting soil, and the second is potting on, or moving the plant to a larger pot. Pick a good time of year to do this. The beginning of the growing season is best, since the growing roots will tap the new potting soil. If possible, work with several plants at a time to consolidate your efforts. Make sure the pots are all clean, and water the plant an hour before to soften the soil. This will prevent spillage and will help the plant to slide out easily. Finally, lay down the newspapers. Step 1