Succulents and cactus are great houseplants for plant lovers with low maintenance. They are relatively maintenance free expect for infrequent watering and annual food. They require minimal care, but when they outgrow their pots, they will need some attention. That is repotting. Many gardeners ask should I repot my succulents and cactus?  Yes, they don’t need repotting regularly but once in a while when plant needs a larger pot. Again, the next question comes is when to repot the plants it depends upon the plant and its condition.  So here are some tips to repot your succulents and cactus plants.

When to Repot a Cactus or Succulent

To encourage growth, you have to provide suitable conditions for your plant. If you notice any of the following conditions then it’s time to repot your plant

• The plant tips fall over because of its top heavy.
• The plant grows very little at the growing stage
• Roots are emerging from the soil’s surface
• Plant growing out of the pot.
• The soil is compact and doesn’t allow the water infiltration.
• If the plant requires constant watering.

HOW TO REPOT THE SUCCULENTS AND CACTUS

With a little extra care, you can easily repot your cactus and succulent plant. As cactus plant will have small thorns it needs extra care at the time of repotting.

THE THINGS NEEDED FOR REPOTTING ARE

• Container –

succulents prefer pots that are wide rather than deep, most succulents have root systems that grow horizontally than vertically.

The new container should have a diameter that is two Inches larger than

  current pot

• Right potting media

Succulents need soil that will be able to dry out completely between watering.

• Gloves
• Knife

HOW TO DO REPOTTING?

1. Remove any rotten or dead root parts.
2. Loose soil in the pot by with garden tool and be careful about the plant roots.
3. Squeeze the sides of your succulent’s plastic pot to loosen its soil, and gently remove it from the pot.
4. Remove your cactus plant being careful not to come into contact with its pricks. In case the plant is quite huge, use a rolled-up towel or actual gardening gloves.
5. Check the roots for any pests and diseases. If they are infected Treat with appropriate chemicals.
6. Prune the very large roots. Cutting these roots will help your plant grow with much more vigour.
7. Place your succulent in its new pot, then add more soil to the top to secure your succulent in place.
8. Allow the plant to dry out for up four days. This allows the roots that might have been hurt to heal hence eliminating any risk of rot in the soil.