5 Signs It’s Time to Repot Your Plants

Growing indoor and outdoor plants in pots comes with a lot of benefits. It's easier to control the amount of drainage and reduce pests and diseases, and you can relocate them to optimize sunlight needs. However, as your plants grow, they'll require more space to stretch their roots.

Potted plants will provide critical signs that it's time to upgrade their space and repot them. If you ignore these signs, your plants can become unhealthy and have trouble surviving. And, let's face it: The last thing any of us want is another dead plant. So, we went straight to the experts to learn the vital signs it's time to repot your plants—and the best way to do it. 

5 Significant Signs It's Time to Repot Your Plants

Julia Omelchenko, resident botany expert at Plantum, says that repotting is a crucial part of plant care that's often overlooked until it's too late. Knowing when to repot your plants can not only promote their growth but also prevent various health problems.

"In the same way, shellfish and hermit crabs outgrow their shells and have to replace them with larger shells, your plants eventually outgrow their pots and containers and need to be upgraded into a more spacious growing space where their roots can expand," says Nathan Heinrich, horticulturist, and botanical designer. So, that being said, here are the most important signs to watch out for.

Roots Growing Through Drainage Holes or Above the Soil

"When the roots start peeking out from the drainage holes, it's a clear sign the plant needs repotting," says Omelchenko. She continues, "If there's not enough space, the roots tend to get tangled and take the shape of the container, leading to water and nutrient deficiencies. Check the roots by gently pulling the plant out when the soil is dry. If you see more roots than soil, it's time to repot."

Heinrich says that circling roots at the surface and around the edges of the container are signs that it's time to repot. "If you see almost nothing but thick roots with very little soil when you pull the plant out of its pot, that's a sign your plant has outgrown its current home," he informs.

Container is Cracking

Do your pots or containers have cracks in them that weren't there before? Heinrich says that the container your plant is planted in will start to crack from the pressure of overgrown roots, or, if it's a plastic container, it might become misshapen.

A cracked container can cause poor plant health and improper water distribution because it can leak out and not allow the plant to get adequate moisture. So, having cracks in containers is a big sign that your plant is rootbound and that it's time to repot it. 

Plants Require More Watering than Usual

Do your plants seem thirstier than normal? This can be another sign it’s time to repot them. "The plant requires excessive amounts of water because much of the moisture-retaining soil has been displaced by water-hungry roots that absorb water quickly and need constant watering in order to keep it from wilting," Heinrich explains.

Omelchenko says that an overgrown root system with little soil means the growing medium retains less moisture and dries out quickly. This causes wilting and negatively affects the plant's appearance, even with frequent watering.

Growing Has Slowed or Stopped

"If your plant isn't growing during the growing season despite proper care, it might be pot-bound," Omelchenko says. "Limited space and nutrients prevent new roots, leaves, and shoots from developing. This can also hinder flowering and fruiting."

Heinrich says that when the plant becomes nutrient deficient due to a lack of minerals and nutrients in the soil, it will cause slower growth and a general lack of vigor—which are all potential signs your plant needs to be repotted.

Yellowing or Loss of Leaves

"Yellowing leaves can indicate various problems like over- or under-watering, nutrient deficiencies, pests, or diseases," Omelchenko explains. "But if it's the lower, older leaves that are turning yellow and dying off, then it's usually due to a lack of space."

She continues, "Prolonged stress from being root-bound can cause significant leaf loss, making the plant unattractive and weak. A healthy plant resists pests and diseases better, and leaf loss will reduce its energy to grow and defend itself."

How to Repot Plants Successfully

So, if your plants are showing any of these signs, it's time to repot them into more spacious containers. Follow these step-by-step instructions, provided by Omelchenko, to ensure you repot your plant correctly so it can thrive in its new space.

• Start by carefully removing the plant from its pot to avoid damaging the root system. If it's a plastic container, gently press the sides to loosen the roots and soil from the walls. If the roots have grown through the drainage holes, you might need to cut the plastic pot or break a ceramic or glass pot to free the plant without harming the roots.
• Next, carefully untangle and separate the roots with your fingers. This ensures that each root has enough space, oxygen, and access to water in the pot. Remove any damaged, dry, or rotten parts with clean, sharp scissors. Disinfect the cuts to prevent rot.
• The new pot needs to be 2–3 inches larger than the root system. Make sure it has drainage holes so excess water can escape, preventing water logging and root rot. Place a layer of drainage material at the bottom of the pot and then a layer of fresh soil. Position the plant in the center of the pot and fill the sides with more soil.
• Gently tap the pot to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets, but avoid compacting it too much. It should remain loose to allow root growth. After you're done, provide your plant with appropriate care. Water regularly, provide it with bright but diffused light, and mist if the plant requires high humidity.