When to Repot

Repot in spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Do it when roots peek from the drainage hole, the soil has broken down, or the rosette has outgrown the pot.

The Steps

  1. Water a day before so roots flex instead of snapping.
  2. Tip it out -- squeeze a plastic pot, or run a knife around a terracotta one.
  3. Clear old soil from the roots with your fingers; trim any black, dead roots.
  4. Let it dry bare-root for a day -- this seals cuts so they do not rot.
  5. Plant high in fresh gritty mix, neck at the soil line, not buried.
  6. Wait a week before the first light watering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the old soil?

A:

No -- refresh it; old mix holds too much water and salt.

Q: The plant looked shrivelled after -- why?

A:

Normal transplant shock; it plumps up within a week or two.

Q: Do I need a bigger pot?

A:

Only one size up; too much soil stays wet.

A clean repot resets the clock on rot. Keep the rhythm with the watering calculator.