Repotting a houseplant might seem straightforward until you're standing there, pot in one hand, plant in the other, unsure of what to do next. If you’re not experienced in plant care, the thought of damaging your plant during repotting can be intimidating. The good news? Repotting is easier than it looks, and it’s one of the best things you can do to help your plant grow and thrive.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process so you can repot your plant with confidence and success.
Before you begin, make sure you have the essentials ready. You’ll need a new pot that’s slightly larger than your current one, ideally with drainage holes to prevent root rot. A saucer or decorative planter is useful for catching excess water and keeping things tidy.
Choose a good-quality potting mix suited to your plant, and have water, plant food (optional), and gardening gloves nearby. A small hand trowel will make adding soil easier, but you can manage without it if needed.
1. Prepare the new pot
Start by adding a layer of fresh compost or potting mix to the bottom of the pot. You want enough soil to lift the plant so that its base will sit just below the pot's rim.
2. Remove the plant from its current container
Gently tip the plant on its side and use a knife or your fingers to loosen the soil around the edges. Carefully ease the plant out. If the roots are tightly bound, gently tease them apart with your fingers or a fork, this encourages new root growth once it's in the fresh soil.
3. Set the plant in the new pot
Place the plant in the centre, resting on the new soil. Hold it upright while you fill in the sides with more compost. Take your time here to keep the plant steady and ensure it’s not leaning too far in one direction.
4. Add and settle the soil
Once the pot is filled, gently pat the soil down to support the plant, but don’t pack it too tightly. Roots need air as well as moisture to grow well.
5. Water your plant
Mix plant food with water if using, and give your plant a good drink. Water until it begins to drain through the bottom, which confirms the soil is evenly moist.
6. Find the best spot
Place your plant somewhere with the right light conditions. Some plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight while others do well in shadier corners. Take a moment to look up your plant’s specific needs so it can thrive in its new home.
If you’re just getting into plant care, consider starting with some of the easiest houseplants to maintain:
Beyond their beauty, houseplants offer real benefits. They can reduce stress, clean the air, and even help improve your focus and sleep quality. Whether you place them in your living room, kitchen, or bedroom, houseplants bring calm and joy into your space.
Now that you know how to repot a houseplant, you’re ready to give your green friend a fresh start. Browse our collection of indoor plants, composts, pots, and tools in our Gardens Department to get everything you need. A healthy, happy plant begins with the right care, and now, you’ve got it covered.
