How to Repot Succulents Step by Step

Repotting succulents is a straightforward process that gives your plants fresh soil and room to grow.

How to repot succulents

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather Your Supplies:

• New pot: Choose a pot that's only slightly larger than the current one (about 1-2 inches wider). Make sure it has drainage holes! Terracotta pots are excellent for succulents as they help the soil dry out.

  
  

  

  
  

• Succulent potting mix: Use a well-draining mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. Regular potting soil retains too much moisture.

  
  

  

  
  

• Gloves: Optional, but helpful for protecting your hands from soil and any prickly bits.

• Trowel or small shovel: For digging and moving soil.

• Old newspaper or cloth: To protect your work surface.

• Top dressing (optional): Small pebbles, gravel, or decorative sand to place on top of the soil.

  
  

2. Prepare the New Pot:

• If your new pot has large drainage holes, you can place a small piece of landscape fabric or a few larger pebbles at the bottom to prevent the soil from washing out. This still allows for drainage.

  
  

  

  
  

Terracotta pots

3. Gently Remove the Succulent from the Old Pot:

• Tip it sideways: Gently tilt the old pot on its side.

• Loosen the soil: Carefully loosen the soil around the edges of the pot using your trowel or fingers.

• Gently pull: Gently grasp the base of the succulent near the soil line and carefully pull it out. Avoid pulling on the leaves or stems, as they can break easily. If the plant is stuck, try wiggling the pot or using your trowel to further loosen the soil.

• Inspect the roots: Once the succulent is out, gently brush away any excess old soil from the roots. This allows you to inspect them for any signs of rot (soft, brown, or mushy roots). If you find any rotted roots, trim them away with clean, sharp scissors.

  
  

  

  
  

4. Plant the Succulent in the New Pot:

• Add fresh soil: Place a layer of the succulent potting mix in the bottom of the new pot, enough so that the top of the succulent's root ball will sit about an inch below the rim of the new pot. This leaves room for watering.

• Position the succulent: Carefully place the succulent in the center of the new pot.

• Fill with soil: Gently fill the remaining space around the roots with fresh potting mix. Use your trowel to lightly press down the soil to eliminate air pockets, but don't pack it too tightly. The goal is to have the soil level even with where it was in the old pot, or slightly higher.

• Leave space at the top: Ensure there's about an inch of space between the soil line and the rim of the pot.

  
  

  

Succulents care tool

5. Add Top Dressing (Optional):

• If you're using a top dressing, carefully spread a thin layer over the surface of the soil. This can help retain some moisture, prevent soil splashing during watering, and add a decorative touch.

  
  

  

  
  

6. Aftercare:

• Don't water immediately: Allow the succulent to settle in its new pot for a few days (2-7 days, depending on the time of year and humidity) before watering. This helps any small root damage incurred during repotting to heal and reduces the risk of rot.

• Place in indirect light: After repotting, place your succulent in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct, intense sunlight for a week or two, as the plant may be more sensitive after being repotted.

• Resume regular watering: After the initial waiting period, resume your regular watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

That's it! You've successfully repotted your succulent. With proper care, it will thrive in its new home. Let me know if you have any other questions!