When and how to repot a newly receive plant
Repotting a new plant too soon adds extra stress on top of the shock from transport, risking root damage, transplant shock (wilting, yellow leaves, dropping leaves), and potentially introducing root rot if handled improperly.
You should wait 1-2 weeks to repot a new plant to let it acclimate to your home's conditions, choosing a pot only 1-2 inches larger with drainage, using fresh soil, teasing roots if root-bound, and watering after settling it in to help it establish in its new home.
You should wait at least 1-2 weeks after bringing a new plant home for it to adjust to your environment before disturbing its roots. Additionally, it is better during late winter or early spring, before its major growth spurt. If roots are growing from drainage holes, the plant is drying out too quickly or it has a slow growth, its an indication that it needs to be transplanted to a larger pot.
How to Repot
- Get a pot 1-2 inches wider with drainage holes and fresh, appropriate potting mix.
- Gently remove the plant by tipping the pot and massaging the sides; don't pull hard.
- Loosen any tightly spiraled (root-bound) roots by gently teasing them apart to encourage outward growth; don't disturb healthy, dangling roots.
- Add a layer of fresh soil to the new pot, position the plant so the soil line is the same as before, and fill around the sides.
- Gently shake or tap the pot to settle the soil and eliminate large air pockets, then water lightly.
- Place the repotted plant in a shaded spot for a few days to recover from stress, then return to its normal light.
The plant will experiences temporary "transplant shock" as it adjusts to the new pot and fresh soil, often showing signs like wilting or yellow leaves. Be patient, reduced watering initially to prevent root rot and give it a stable place (no direct sun, drafts) to allow roots to settle and grow, eventually leading to healthier growth with more nutrients and space.
