If a potted plant dries out unusually fast, tips over easily or has roots coming through the drainage holes, take a look at its root ball. It may need a little more room. Spring is a convenient time to check, though a plant does not have to wait for spring if it is struggling in its pot.
Look for several signs together
Water sitting on top instead of soaking in can be another sign that it is time to investigate. Ease the plant from the container and look at the roots rather than deciding from the leaves alone. A mass of roots wrapped around most of the soil suggests that the pot has become crowded. If it does not slip out easily, wetting the root ball may help you remove it without tugging on the stems.
Before you start, have the new container and potting mix ready. The next pot size up is often enough; a much larger pot is not automatically better. If you are also choosing pots for a new planting, our container basics covers size and materials.
Set the roots into fresh mix
The original advice is to loosen tightly wound roots by hand and trim the bottom if necessary. Work gently and cut only where the roots are badly bound, rather than removing a large amount for its own sake. You can cover the drainage hole with a coffee filter, paper towel or mesh to keep loose mix from washing out; leave the hole open to water.
Add potting mix beneath the root ball until the plant sits at a sensible level below the rim. If it is too deep, lift it and add a little more mix. Fill around the sides, then water thoroughly. Garden soil is heavy in a pot and can compact, so use potting mix for this job. The plant will still need your attention afterward: check the moisture while it settles into its new container.
Repotting also gives you a chance to decide whether that plant still suits its spot. Our year-round container ideas and the follow-up offer other planting possibilities when you want to change the display.
