Daily gardening tip · Southern hemisphere · Wednesday 7 October 2026 · mid spring
Give Active Houseplant Roots More Space
Mid-spring is the perfect time to move crowded houseplants into slightly larger pots while they are actively growing.
15 minuteseasyindoor plants
Choose a new pot that is only one size larger, about two to five centimetres wider than the current one.
Gently slide the plant out of its old pot to inspect the root ball.
Use your fingers to softly loosen any tightly wound roots at the bottom.
Place a layer of fresh indoor potting mix in the bottom of the new pot.
Position the plant in the centre and fill the sides with fresh mix, pressing down gently.
Water the plant thoroughly to help the soil settle around the roots.
Why it works
During the active spring growth cycle, plants quickly produce new roots and shoots. Moving a rootbound plant to a slightly larger pot gives these new roots fresh nutrients and room to expand without overwhelming them with too much wet, unused soil.
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