The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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Succulents, with their diverse shapes and vibrant colors, have become a favorite among plant enthusiasts. These hardy plants are known for their ability to thrive in harsh conditions, but even they need a little TLC from time to time. One essential aspect of succulent care is repotting, which can seem daunting to many. This article aims to demystify the process and provide a step-by-step guide on how to repot succulents successfully.

When Should I Repot My Succulents? – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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The timing of repotting your succulents can significantly impact their health and growth. Generally, succulents should be repotted every 12 to 18 months. However, there are a few signs that your succulent might need repotting sooner:

Outgrowing The Pot – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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If your succulent looks like it’s bursting out of its current pot, it’s time for a bigger home. Overcrowding can hinder the growth of your succulent and lead to root damage.

Watering Feels Off – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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If your succulent dries out quickly after watering or isn’t absorbing water properly, it could be a sign that the pot is too small. A larger pot will allow for better water flow and root expansion.

After Purchase – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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Newly bought succulents often come in small, temporary pots. It’s best to repot these within a week or two of purchase to ensure they have the space and nutrients they need to thrive.

What Is The Best Way To Repot Succulents? – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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Repotting succulents doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it right:

Step 1: Preparation – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

Water your succulent a day or two before you plan to repot. This makes the plant easier to remove from its current pot. Gather your repotting supplies, including a new pot, fresh succulent soil, a trowel, and perhaps a new pair of gloves.

Step 2: Removal

Gently turn the plant sideways and hold it by the stem. Tap the bottom of the current pot to loosen it. If the plant doesn’t come out easily, you can use a small trowel or spoon to help ease it out.

Step 3: Root Care

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Once the succulent is out of its pot, check the roots. If they’re tightly wound or knotted, gently tease them apart with your fingers. If any roots are rotten or dead, trim them off.

Step 4: The New Pot

Place a layer of fresh, well-draining succulent soil in the new pot. Center your succulent in the pot, then add more soil around it, pressing lightly to firm it up. Leave some space at the top of the pot to make watering easier.

Step 5: Aftercare

Wait for a day or two before watering your newly repotted succulent to allow it to adjust to its new home. This also gives any damaged roots time to heal, reducing the risk of root rot.

What Kind of Soil Do Succulents Like to Repot? – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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Succulents prefer well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. A mix of potting soil with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice will provide the right drainage and nutrient balance. You can also use a pre-made succulent or cactus mix available at most garden centers. For an added boost, consider incorporating a slow-release fertilizer into your soil mix.

Should You Put Succulents In Sun After Repotting? – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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After repotting,it’s best to place your succulents in a shaded or indirect sunlight area for a few days to a week. This allows them to adjust to their new environment and recover from any stress caused by the repotting process. Once they’ve had time to settle, gradually reintroduce them to their usual light conditions.

Remember, while succulents are sun-loving plants, they can get sunburned, especially if exposed to direct, intense sunlight for extended periods. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor your succulents for any signs of sunburn, such as discoloration or scorch marks, and adjust their light exposure as necessary.

Choosing The Right Pot For Your Succulents – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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The choice of pot can significantly impact the health of your succulents. When selecting a pot, consider the following:

1. Size: The pot should be slightly larger than the succulent, allowing room for growth. However, avoid pots that are too large as they can hold excess water and lead to root rot.
2. Material: Terra cotta pots are a popular choice for succulents due to their porous nature, which allows for better airflow and water evaporation. However, plastic or ceramic pots can also be used, provided they have good drainage.
3. Drainage: Perhaps the most critical factor is drainage. Succulents do not like to sit in waterlogged soil, so a pot with one or more drainage holes is essential.

Caring For Your Succulents After Repotting – The Comprehensive Guide To Repotting Succulents

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After repotting, your succulents will need a bit of extra care:

1. Watering: Wait for a few days to a week after repotting before watering your succulents. This allows any damaged roots to heal and helps prevent root rot. After that, water your succulents thoroughly, allowing the water to drain out of the pot’s bottom. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
2. Light: Gradually reintroduce your succulents to their usual light conditions after a few days to a week. Monitor them for any signs of sunburn and adjust their light exposure as necessary.
3. Fertilizing: After repotting, your succulents will benefit from a dose of nutrients to help them settle into their new home. Use a slow-release fertilizer designed for succulents, following the package instructions for dosage and frequency.

Repotting succulents may seem like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be a straightforward and rewarding process. By understanding when and how to repot your succulents, what kind of soil to use, and how to care for them after repotting, you can ensure your succulents continue to thrive and bring joy to your home or garden.

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If you’re looking to expand your succulent collection, check out these beautiful succulents that can be delivered right to your doorstep. Happy repotting!