Unnecessary repotting is the single most common mistake that folks make. If you're contemplating repotting, think twice and make sure it is really necessary before proceeding. Only badly potbound plants need repotting. There are no other good reasons to repot.
However, it is sometimes necessary to repot a plant into a larger pot. When repotting, you must do it correctly. Here are a few basic rules that must be followed.
1. Repot up one-size only. That means a pot that is either one or two inches wider. Going too large will increase the chances of root suffocation.
2. Use a pot that has one or more drain holes. Using a sealed pot and adding stones in the bottom instead is an outdated and discredited practice.
3. Use a potting mix appropriate for your plant – very porous with extra perlite mixed throughout for succulents, for example.
4. Use a potting mix that is soilless and sterile to avoid pest problems such as fungus gnats, centipedes, and mushrooms.
5. When removing the potbound plant that you are repotting, loosen the outer roots just a bit but leave the rootball and its soil intact. Never try to remove the original soil.
6. Place enough new potting mix in the bottom of the new pot so that the top of the rootball is a half-inch or so below the rim. If the plant sits too low, add more soil underneath to raise the rootball.
7. Add potting mix under and around the rootball, but never on top of the original rootball.
8. Center the plant and make sure it is straight and attractive to your eye, then water thoroughly.
9. Finally, add more soil if any settles too deeply into the pot and make sure the plant is upright and stable.
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