If there is one trend that everyone loves, it is having indoor plants in your home. Indeed, houseplants can be a great way to add natural colour, clean the air and even improve your mood and productivity.
What’s more, there are many houseplants that are green all year round and do not require much maintenance to look pretty.
But, there is one thing you should be paying attention to if you want to have amazing and healthy indoor plants. We are talking about the soil. You want to ensure you are choosing the correct soil for the plant you are growing. Plus, it will have to be refreshed. So, how often should you change the soil of indoor plants? Let’s take a closer look.
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Refreshing the Soil
If you ask most people, they will tell you that they have never changed the soil for their indoor plants. This is not something that people think you have to do. But, it is necessary if you want to keep your plants healthy and allow them to grow.
In particular, if you notice that your plants are stunted or do not seem in the best condition, it could be that they are not getting enough nutrients.
Therefore, it is recommended that you refresh the soil of your plants every 12 to 18 months. This allows your plant to benefit from more nutrients that might no longer be present in the current soil. It can give them a fresh boost, which might be exactly what they need to thrive.
Do not forget that it is essential that you change the pots your plant is in too. This allows it to grow. You can buy from a plant pots wholesale like Dejex if you want to save money and buy a range of sizes at the same time for your indoor plants.
Choose the Right Soil
Do not forget that everyone indoor plant is going to be different. Some will need more of certain nutrients than others. So, it is not just refreshing the soil that matters. It is also making sure you select the right one.
Therefore, consider what type of plant you have. For example, if you have succulents, it will be beneficial to look for a succulent soil mix. You can find this online or at garden centres. There are also going to be products like general indoor potting mixes, which might suit a variety of plants.
How to Change the Soil for a Houseplant
Once you have found the right soil for your houseplant, next will come the process of repotting it. Let’s take a look at the steps involved in this process and how you can do this without damaging your plant.
1. Remove From the Pot
First, you want to remove the plant from the container or pot carefully. The best way to do this is by turning the pot on its side and gently moving the plant out. It might create a bit of a mess. But, it is going to be better than pulling it out and risking damaging the roots and leaves.
If you have plants like cacti and that have sharp needles on them, it will be best to wear gloves during this process. It might also help to use a towel and wrap that around the plant, so you do not injure yourself.
If you are using a new plant pot, make sure that it has drainage holes. This can lower the risk of disease and damage to the plant caused by too much water.
2. Fill With Soil
Next, whether you are using the same pot or a new one, you want to fill this with the new soil. Then, you should place the plant inside, creating a dip in the soil for it to sit in. Then, pour some more soil on the top so that all of the roots are covered. You do not want any to be exposed.
3. Water the Plant
Once you are done, it will be time to water the plant. This will ensure the roots take to the new soil and start obtaining nutrients. Something to realise is that a newly potted plant will not need fertiliser straight away.
Remember that you have just refreshed the soil, which is going to contain a lot of good nutrients for the plant. So, hold off on giving the plant any fertiliser. Instead, just make sure you water well and frequently during the growing season so it can enjoy the nutrients that have been replenished in the soil.
