Are you facing the challenge of repotting a root bound peace lily? Well, you’re in the right place! Repotting your plant into a larger pot can give it the space it needs to thrive, but there’s one crucial step that many people overlook. Missing this step can hinder your plant’s growth and even cause it to decline. In this article, we’ll uncover the secret to successful repotting and ensure your peace lily flourishes. So, let’s dive in!
How to Identify a Root Bound Peace Lily
Before we jump into the repotting process, let’s determine if your peace lily needs a bigger pot. Here are a few signs to look out for:
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- The surface of your soil is covered with hard, matted roots.
- Roots are growing out of the drainage holes.
- Your peace lily’s soil dries out quickly, and watering becomes a challenge.
If you notice any of these indications, it’s time to take action. Let’s proceed with the three essential steps to repotting.
Step 1: Remove from the Pot and Loosen the Root Ball
To begin, gently remove your peace lily from its pot. If it’s in a plastic nursery pot, squeeze the perimeter and carefully pull the plant out. For rigid containers, use a knife to run along the inner edge and ease the plant out.
Take a moment to observe your peace lily’s root ball. If it’s tightly packed and circling around the bottom, it’s crucial to loosen it. Neglecting this step can impede the plant’s growth. Let me share a personal experience with you.
Read more : Overwatering Peace Lilies: A Guide to Keeping Your Plant Thriving
Once, I had a peace lily that wasn’t thriving despite being in a large pot. After investigating, I discovered the cause: the root ball was tightly bound, and no new roots had grown into the pot. I had made the mistake of not loosening the roots during repotting. Unfortunate, but a valuable lesson learned!
To loosen the root ball, start by gently separating the roots at the bottom and then work your way up the sides. Tease the roots apart, providing them with room to grow into the new potting mix. If your plant is extremely root bound, making vertical slashes or cuts on the sides and bottom of the root ball with a sharp knife can offer a fresh start for new roots.
Remember, don’t worry if you damage a few roots in the process. They will recover, and your plant will thank you for it!
Step 2: Choose a New Pot
Now that the roots are loose and ready for growth, it’s time to select a new pot. As a rule of thumb, opt for a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one. For example, if your plant is in a 4-inch diameter pot, choose a 6-inch diameter pot for repotting.
Avoid going too big with the pot size, as excessive space can delay the drying-out process of the potting mix. Additionally, ensure the new pot has a drainage hole. Personally, I prefer planting directly into green nursery pots with drainage holes and then placing them in decorative pots.
Step 3: Pot it Up with a Well-Drained Potting Mix
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To complete the repotting process, select a well-drained potting mix that retains moisture. Peace lilies thrive in environments that offer a good balance of moisture. For my peace lilies and other leafy tropicals, I recommend blending 3 parts of a quality potting soil (such as Miracle-Gro or Espoma) with 1 part perlite.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for an incredible ready-to-use mix, the Rainforest Soil Blend from Oh Happy Plants is a fantastic choice. You can find it on Amazon, and by using my link, you’ll receive a 10% discount at checkout.
And that’s it! By following these three steps, you’ll ensure the successful repotting of your root bound peace lily. Don’t forget to check out my other posts on peace lily care and how to revive a drooping peace lily. If you’ve recently repotted your peace lily, share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!
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Category: Lily
