Repotting 101: When, Why, & How to Repot Houseplants

Repotting means moving a plant into fresh soil, a new container, or both. It’s a regular part of indoor plant care, and not a sign your plant is struggling.

When Should You Repot Indoor Plants?

Most houseplants should be repotted every 1–2 years, but timing matters more than the calendar.

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to repot your plant:

• Roots growing out of drainage holes. This means the roots have run out of space inside the pot.
• Water runs straight through the pot. Soil that drains too fast often means roots have taken over.
• Slow or stalled growth. Even with good light and water, crowded roots limit plant growth.
• Soil dries out unusually fast. Less soil means less moisture stays in the pot between waterings.
• Outgrown its shape or is crowding itself. Plants that produce offshoots can become packed in their pots, leaving little room for roots or new growth.

How Often Different Houseplants Need Repotting

There’s no one-size-fits-all schedule. How often you repot houseplants depends on how fast they grow and what kind of environment they prefer.

Fast Growers vs. Slow Growers

• Fast-growing plants (like pothos, spider plants, and philodendrons) often need repotting every 12–18 months. They fill pots quickly and use up nutrients faster.
• Slow-growing plants (like snake plants, ZZ plants, and many dracaenas) can go 2–3 years between repotting. They’re happy taking their time.

Tropical Plants vs. Succulents

• Tropical plants like soil that stays lightly and consistently moist. Repotting every 1–2 years helps refresh nutrients and supports healthy root expansion.
• Succulents and cacti grow slowly and like tighter spaces. Repotting every 2–3 years is often enough, as long as the drainage remains good.

Plants That Like Being Slightly Root-Bound

Some houseplants actually perform better with snug roots, like Peace lilies, African violets, and Hoyas. Being slightly root-bound can encourage flowering and more controlled growth.

If the plant looks healthy and water behavior hasn’t changed, there’s no rush to move it.

Best Time of Year to Repot

Spring and early summer are the best times to repot most indoor plants. During these months, plants are actively growing, which helps them recover faster after being moved.

But if your plant really needs repotting, you can do it at other times of the year. Just expect a slower bounce-back during seasons like winter (when growth naturally slows).

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil