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Repot when roots grow out of the drainage hole, water runs straight through, or the plant has not grown for a long time. The best time is spring to early monsoon.

You will need

  • A pot 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) wider than the current one, with a drainage hole. See pots & planters.
  • Fresh potting mix suited to the plant.
  • A small trowel and a watering can.

Steps

  1. Water the plant a day before so the root ball slides out easily.
  2. Tip the pot, support the base of the plant and ease it out.
  3. Loosen circling roots gently and remove dead or mushy roots.
  4. Add mix to the new pot, set the plant at the same depth as before and fill around it.
  5. Water well and keep the plant out of strong sun for a week while it settles.

Avoid moving a plant into a pot much bigger than its roots: extra wet soil can cause root rot.