How to Repot a Succulent

Written by Nikita Ross
Updated: August 7, 2023
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One of the many delights of caring for indoor plants is watching them thrive and grow. Succulents are known for being low-maintenance and beginner-friendly, but they, too, reach a point where hands-on care is needed.

Repotting a succulent becomes necessary when the plant grows too big for its pot, or pests or soil quality makes its current home unhealthy. To repot a succulent, you’ll need the right type of soil, a suitable vessel, and the ideal timing to help it thrive and grow. 

This article will explain how to repot a succulent and answer some commonly asked questions about the process.

Succulent plants in a big broken ceramic pot.

Add decorative stones to your succulent terrarium and let your creativity shine.

©puha dorin/Shutterstock.com

When Should I Repot My Succulent?

Gardening experts recommend repotting your succulent at least every two years. This approach applies to most indoor plants, as it allows for proper growth and fresh, nutrient-rich soil. However, there are other signs that it might be time to repot your succulent sooner.

If you notice visible roots coming through the drainage holes or starting to pop out of the top of your pot, it’s time to transfer your succulent to something bigger. 

If your succulent is the type to grow offshoots — like a hen and chicks or aloe — and the pot is becoming too crowded, it’s time to separate and repot the pups into their own containers.

Another common sign that it’s time for fresh soil and a bigger pot is if the water drains through too quickly. This indicates that the succulent is struggling to absorb the water or that the soil type is wrong for your plant. If it’s a new issue, it’s likely time for a new pot and fresh soil.

Finally, your succulents will tell you if something is wrong. If you notice them drooping or looking flat, they may struggle to absorb the water. Similarly, discoloration indicates an issue with soil nutrients.

Finally, if you notice signs of pests, rot, or mold growth, get that succulent out of the pot, clean the roots, and give it a new pot with fresh soil.

You may notice one issue or several. As many of these problems can be tied to other causes, evaluating whether your succulents have experienced any recent changes in care or surroundings is important. If not, play it safe and repot your plant.

What Time of Year Should I Repot My Succulents?

Succulents experience dormancy from the fall to the late spring. It’s best to repot succulents close to the beginning of their growth period in the spring and summer. 

Repotting in the fall could trigger a new active period when the plant should be dormant. This causes the succulent to experience growth without the proper conditions, leading to disfiguration and etiolation (legginess). 

What Soil Is Best for Repotting Succulents?

Succulents need well-draining soil representative of their desert origins to thrive. Purchase a cactus or succulent-specific soil, or make your own by mixing potting soil, sand, and perlite in equal parts. 

Some avid indoor gardeners like to include coco coir and organic matter (compost) in their succulent mix. The organic matter can be especially helpful when repotting to establish the succulent in its new home.

Woman transplanting Haworthia into pot at table indoors, closeup.

Good soil will provide the right amount of water, air, and nutrients for your succulent to thrive.

©New Africa/Shutterstock.com

Can I Repot a Succulent That Is Already Blooming?

Do not repot a succulent that’s already blooming. Leave the succulent until the bloom dies, then prune it and repot.

Repotting Your Succulent: Step By Step

Once you’ve determined that your succulent needs a new home, it’s time to start the repotting process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  • Hydrate your succulents. Plan ahead and ensure your succulents are watered a couple of days before you repot them to ensure adequate health.
  • Choose a suitable pot. Your succulent needs a container with a drainage hole. Pick a pot that’s only one or two sizes larger than the current pot to provide more space without creating an imbalance between the roots and water retention. These factors will help prevent root rot. 
  • Remove the succulent from its pot. Hold the bottom of the pot and slowly turn the succulent over. Hold the succulent by the base and gently pull it out. If it won’t easily come free, use a trowel or stick to loosen the soil from the edges.
  • Clean the roots. Remove excess soil and wipe down the roots of your succulent to prevent any bacteria from transferring to the new pot. Remember to wash your hands first or wear gloves!
  • Prepare the new pot. Fill the new pot half to three-quarters of the way full with your succulent mix. Gently place the succulent in the pot so the base is just below the rim. Use a trowel or spoon to fill in the rest of the dirt. 

Be cautious if you’re repotting a cactus. Wear thick garden gloves or use padded kitchen tongs to move the plant.

It’s also important to be cautious if you’re repotting a succulent arrangement, as the root systems are likely intertwined. Take your time and be gentle, trimming with clean scissors as needed. 

Caring for Your Succulent After Repotting

The most common mistake people make after repotting their succulents is to water them immediately. Instead, let the succulent rest for a week or two before giving it a good drink.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Reda.G/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Nikita Ross is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering plants, gardening, and yard care. Nikita has been writing for over seven years and holds a Marketing diploma from NSCC, which she earned in 2010. A resident of Canada, Nikita enjoys reading in her library, epic beach naps, and waiting for her Coffea arabica plant to produce coffee beans (no luck yet).

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