How to repot a plant without killing it
The single biggest mistake is going too big. Here's the right size, the right time, and the right next steps.
Sera Mendel
February 18, 2026
When to repot
Roots growing out the drainage holes. Water running straight through without absorbing. Plant top-heavy and falling over.
Spring is ideal — plants are entering a growth phase. Avoid winter unless it's an emergency.
Pick a pot one size up — not three
An inch or two larger in diameter. A pot too big holds extra wet soil that the roots can't reach, leading to rot.
Drainage hole is non-negotiable. Decorative pots without drainage = the plant inside dies eventually.
The repotting process
Slide the plant out. Loosen the root ball gently. Place a layer of fresh soil in the new pot.
Set the plant in, fill around with soil, press lightly. Water lightly. Don't fertilize for a month — the plant is recovering.
People also ask
Should I add rocks to the bottom for drainage?+
No, contrary to popular advice. Rocks raise the water table inside the pot, making the bottom soil wetter, not drier.
What kind of soil?+
Generic potting mix for most plants. Cacti and succulents need a gritty mix. Orchids need bark, not soil.
Why is my plant droopy after repotting?+
Transplant shock — normal. Recovers in 1–2 weeks if you don't overwater or move it around.