Dracaena is an amazing plant to bring home. It not only looks good but it is not as demanding as most other houseplants out there. However, just like all plants, after a couple of months, you will need to repot your plant. This is for the simple fact that the soil in the pot can only sustain the nutritional needs of your plant for so long. But how do you make sure that the transplant does not end up damaging your plant? The objective of this post is to educate you on how to repot a large plant.
Repotting a houseplant is important. Most plantscaper suppliers will actually give you advice on when and how to repot your plant. Another reason why you need to repot most plants is because their roots will grow to large sizes and the small pot will no longer be able to contain them. Failing to re-pot your plant on time may cause it to wilt even after watering. There are a few tips you have to consider when repotting your houseplant.
Dealing with extremely large plants
Some plants grow into massive sizes. In this case, repotting them will not be a viable option. The solution here is to replace the top soil with new one. You need to replace the top 2 to 3 inches of the top soil with fresh soil at least once every year. This is a process known as top dressing. It helps replenish the nutrients in the pot without disturbing the roots.
Moving to a new pot
With most houseplants, especially the draceana, it is possible to move the plant to another larger pot. The best time to do this is in spring. You should avoid repotting large plants that are already blooming or budding.
A day before repotting your plant you need to water it. The soil needs to be damp so that it holds together better when moving it. You will also need to choose a container that is at least 2 inches larger, in diameter, than the current one. Interiorscaper suppliers will be happy to supply you with any pot size you need. Use a bucket to mix potting mix. You should mix the mix with water.
The next step is to turn the plant on its side. Try and slide it out of its pot. If it is stuck, try and run a knife around the edges of the pot. You can also push through the drainage holes using a pencil. Only tug gently. Cut away roots that may be growing through the drainage holes. If you still cannot remove the plant from the pot, you may have to destroy the pot. Cut with shears (plastic) or smash with a hammer (clay).
You now need to put enough of the mixed potting mix into the new container. Adding stones or pebbles at the bottom of the pot before adding the soil can help with drainage. Loosen the roots of the plant by removing the soil that comes loose. Cut off the dead roots. Set the plant in the new container and surround it with moistened potting mix. Water the plant thoroughly and keep it away from direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks.