Learn necessary information about transplanting house plants. Tips for matinence and care and how to avoid shock after transplanting.
As soon as you buy a houseplant from a nursery, you will most probably need to repot it as soon as possible. Although the plant may look healthy, it needs plenty of room to grow. Choosing an appropriate container is vitally important because if the pot is too small there will not be enough soil for the plants to get enough nutrients. Too much soil will cause the area around the roots to hold an excessive amount of water which in turn will deprive the plant of air. The pot then, should be about one inch wider than the root ball.
The container should provide adequate drainage. Place the pot inside a tray or saucer which will allow proper drainage without damaging your furniture. You should also make sure that the container has been washed with soap and water after each use to destroy organisms that cause disease.
Next, you need to choose a good quality soil for houseplants. This should be a lighter textured soil than you would use for outside plants. First, place a piece of a broken clay pot to cover the drainage hole so that the soil will not fall out. Then place a layer of soil across the bottom of the pot.
Remove the plant from the old container by holding it upside down and support the stem. Be careful to not break apart the root ball. However, if the roots are tightly woven together, you should break the bottom of the roots with your forefinger and separate lightly. This is an excellent time to inspect the roots and determine if they are strong and healthy or badly diseased and damaged. If they are in bad shape, then you should discard the plant.
When watering your plants be very careful to not overwater. This is much more dangerous to the plant than underwatering. Overwatering causes the roots to rot. Better to water deeply every once in a while with lukewarm water. Try to not get the leaves wet as this fosters disease. You will usually have enough time to notice if the plant is underwatered. The plant will go into shock if you do not water it soon. The leaves will begin to wilt, and at this time it is best to soak the plant in a sink or tub. But the soil should be dry to the touch before you re-water. Stick your finger down into the soil about an inch before watering. If it is moist, the plant does not need water.
Next make sure that you do not overfertilize you plants. It is better to underfeed than overfeed. If your plant does need nutrients the leaves will turn pale and yellow.
Be sure to dust the leaves of your plants to rid it from dirt, mites, and diseases. Some people wash the leaves with soap and water. If you choose to do this use a mild liquid soap. Cut off dead leaves and be sure to pinch and prune.
Make sure your plant has plenty of light. This is one of the most important things you can give your plant to enable it to grow properly. Be sure to research the plant you own and follow the directions on how much light it needs. If you turn your plant a quarter each week, then the leaves will have a better chance of receiving an equal amount of light.
If you follow these directions after buying a houseplant, you can reduce the shock that comes from transplanting, and you will have a beautiful and healthy plant of years to come.
