The Right Way to Repot a Plant Without Hurting It

At Harit Mantra, we often get messages like, “My plant started drooping after I repotted it. What went wrong?”We understand — we’ve been there too!

Repotting may look simple, but if not done carefully, it can shock your plant. Over time, we’ve learned that repotting is not just about moving a plant to a new pot — it’s about helping it feel comfortable and safe in its new home.

Here’s the right way to repot a plant without hurting it, shared from our own gardening experience.

Step 1: Know When It’s Time to Repot

Plants don’t always need a new pot, but they do give small hints when they feel cramped or tired. Look out for these signs:

• Roots coming out of the bottom holes.

• The soil dries too quickly after watering.

• The plant has stopped growing.

• The pot looks too small compared to the plant.

When you notice these, it’s your plant’s gentle way of saying, “I need more room to grow!”

Step 2: Pick the Right Pot and Soil

Choose a pot that’s just one size bigger than the current one. A much larger pot can hold too much water and harm the roots.We prefer clay or terracotta pots because they let the soil breathe better.

Now comes the most important part, the soil. Healthy soil is full of life, air, and nutrients. Here’s the mix we use at Harit Mantra:

• 40% garden soil

• 30% cocopeat

• 30% Harit Mantra Vermicompost

Vermicompost makes the soil rich, soft, and full of natural microbes that help roots grow strong and healthy. It’s like giving your plants a natural power boost.

Step 3: Take the Plant Out Gently

A day before repotting, water your plant. Moist soil helps the roots slide out easily.

When you remove the plant, hold it from the base and tilt the pot slightly. Tap the sides or bottom gently.If it’s stuck, use a spoon or stick to loosen the soil — but never pull the plant by its stem. It’s delicate and can break easily.

Step 4: Loosen and Clean the Roots

Once the plant is out, shake off a little of the old soil. If the roots are tightly packed, open them gently with your fingers.

Cut off any brown or soft roots — these are dead parts. Healthy roots should look white and fresh.

Step 5: Place It in the New Pot

Add a small layer of soil mix at the bottom of the new pot. Place the plant in the center and fill the pot with the rest of the soil.

Press the soil lightly to keep the plant straight, but don’t pack it too tight — roots need some air to breathe. Finally, water the plant slowly so the soil settles nicely.

Step 6: Give It Some Rest

After repotting, keep the plant in a shady area for 3–5 days. This helps it adjust to the new soil and pot. Avoid adding fertilizers right away — just water lightly when needed.

Within a week or two, your plant will start showing new leaves. That’s your sign, it’s happy again!

From Our Garden to Yours

Repotting is one of the kindest things you can do for your plants — it’s like giving them a fresh start. At Harit Mantra, we’ve seen how a little care and the right soil can bring dull plants back to life.

If you’re planning to repot soon, try mixing your soil with Harit Mantra Vermicompost. It naturally improves soil health and helps roots grow faster and stronger.

Because at Harit Mantra, we believe —Healthy soil. Happy roots. Happier you. 💚