---
title: "I’m newer to plants and haven’t ever repotted any of the plants I…"
description: "I’m newer to plants and haven’t ever repotted any of the plants I have. I think it’s time to do that for some but I’m scared I’ll kill them or do something…"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/lZ7uAE3pQ86jnFGxrCwLrg/6513075306b80ab77c2c60f6"
community: "Anything about plants"
author: "MLS"
published: "2023-09-26T16:31:15.318Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/w2wiFxouOwanIp1pWpu-LpngHz-yY109Pfw3B21XNkg/3f4a592b72644431bb3cc21655c84ae9.webp?size=large"
---

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# I’m newer to plants and haven’t ever repotted any of the plants I…

_Posted by MLS on 2023-09-26_

I’m newer to plants and haven’t ever repotted any of the plants I have. I think it’s time to do that for some but I’m scared I’ll kill them or do something wrong. Any tips for a newbie like me?

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/w2wiFxouOwanIp1pWpu-LpngHz-yY109Pfw3B21XNkg/3f4a592b72644431bb3cc21655c84ae9.webp?size=large)

## 8 comments

### Hailey commented on 2023-09-26

I was the same way! Just a few tips that will help -  
1\. Squeeze the pot (if it’s in a plastic one) all around to loosen up the soil. That way you can easily remove the plant/soil without hurting the roots.  
2\. Remove the soil that is on/around the roots. Just gently brush it with your fingers. If the plant is root bound or the roots are stuck together, just gently loosen them and take them apart so they are able to continue growing. Trim the dead roots off (any that are shriveled or slimy) to ensure good health of the plant.  
3\. Make sure you use well draining soil, I usually use potting soil and add perlite. Once you have it in the new pot press it down just a little so the plant is “set” and won’t flop over and out of the soil. Give it a good water and you’re good to go! They might go into shock a little after being repotted, just keep doing what you’re doing and they will pop out of it :)

#### Hailey replied on 2023-09-26

Even if they’re root bound? I’ve had quite a few people tell me to untangle them a bit so they are able to grow better once repotted. Good to get more advice though!

#### Plant Father replied on 2023-09-26

i leave them alone for the most part unless they are horribly compacted to avoid shock, and as always breanna you’ve got great tips. i aspire to know so much about so many species

#### Hailey replied on 2023-09-26

I appreciate your info!!

#### Hailey replied on 2023-09-26

Thank you for the information!!

### K’s Plants commented on 2023-09-26

I too was afraid at first. Watching some videos gave me confidence. These plants are usually pretty resilient and will appreciate some new well draining soil full of nutrients. Happy planting!

### Leafmealone commented on 2023-09-26

It is scary at first, you don’t want to kill your babies. I did A LOT of googling and youtube and still do over 100 plants later. You’ll learn a lot along the way. I always have foxfarm ocean forest soil on hand, orchid bark, succulent soil, and perlite and that covers almost any plant.

### Fern \<3 commented on 2023-09-26

If you are repotting due to stale or old soil, I would slowly remove and add some soil by scooping ONE or TWO scoops with a plastic cup or a trowel, then add new soil to replace the old soil you took out. Do this for a period of like… maybe 5 days to a week? I only do this with my super sensitive plants though, since it’s a process.

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