Why Repotting Matters

Regular repotting encourages steady, healthy growth by:

• Giving roots more space to expand
• Refreshing the soil with new nutrients
• Preventing roots from circling and becoming restricted

If a plant is left in a pot that’s too small, it becomes "root-bound", meaning the roots grow in tight circles, unable to spread out properly. This can lead to misshapen growth, stunted development, or no new growth at all.

Choosing the Right Pot Size

Choosing the right size pot is crucial. If you move a plant into a pot that's too large, the extra soil around the roots can hold too much moisture. This can lead to root rot - one of the most common causes of houseplant problems.

The best rule of thumb: move up just one or two pot sizes at a time.

This gives your plant a little more room to grow without overwhelming its root system.

How Often Should You Repot?

Most plants benefit from repotting every 1–2 years, but this can vary depending on:

• The species
• How fast it grows
• Your home's conditions (like humidity and light)

Some drought-tolerant plants, like succulents, are happy staying in the same pot for longer. Meanwhile, faster growers or plants kept in more humid environments might need more frequent repotting.

Signs It’s Time to Repot

Keep an eye out for some of these key signs that it's time to repot:

• Roots growing out of drainage holes
• Soil drying out very quickly after watering
• Slowed or stunted growth
• Cracked or distorted pots

Healthy Roots Make a Happy Plant

By keeping an eye on your plant’s size and root health, and repotting at the right intervals, you ensure your plant has the best chance to thrive. Healthy roots lead to healthier plants, with more vibrant leaves, stronger flowering, and easier day-to-day care.

Tip: Repotting is also the perfect chance to check your soil. Using the right soil mix for your plant makes a huge difference! Have a read of our article What Soil Do I Need? here