Repotting a Ficus: step-by-step guide

Repotting is an essential part of plant care. In this guide, we'll teach you step-by-step how to properly repot your Ficus.

When to Repot?

Your Ficus needs to be repotted if:

• Roots are growing out of the drainage hole
• The plant dries out faster than usual
• The plant stops growing despite good light conditions
• Roots are visible on the soil surface
• The growing season has begun (spring)

Generally, strong growers like Ficus should be repotted every 1-2 years. Avoid repotting in winter when growth is slow.

What You'll Need

Gather these items before you begin:

• A new pot, 1-2 sizes larger than the current one (a few millimeters larger in diameter is better than much larger)
• Fresh potting soil suitable for Ficus
• Mesh or screens for the drainage hole (optional)
• A shovel or spoon
• Water
• Old newspapers or a mat to work on

Potting Soil Type: Use a well-draining soil mix. For Ficus, standard potting soil mixes work well, though you can add some perlite or orchid bark for better drainage.

Step-by-Step Repotting

Step 1: Preparation - Lightly water the plant so the soil is not completely dry, but also not soaking wet. This makes it much easier to remove the plant from the pot.

Step 2: Remove Plant from Pot - Tilt the pot sideways and gently slide the plant out. If the plant is stuck, you can carefully break the old pot or run a knife along the inside edges.

Step 3: Examine Roots - Inspect the roots. Healthy roots are white or light-colored. If you see black, slimy roots, there's root rot, and you should remove all rotted parts.

Step 4: Remove Old Soil - Gently massage the roots to loosen some of the old soil. This encourages new root growth in the new soil. Don't remove everything - about 50% of the old soil can remain.

Step 5: Place Plant in New Pot - Put a layer of new soil at the bottom of the new pot. Place the plant so it sits at the same depth as before. Fill around with soil and gently press down.

Step 6: Water - Gently water until it drains out of the drainage hole. This helps the soil settle and positions the roots properly.

Step 7: Rest - Place the plant in its permanent spot and water minimally for 1-2 weeks while it adjusts to the new soil.

Correct Potting Soil

Ficus isn't very picky about potting soil, but prefers well-draining mixes:

• 40% standard houseplant soil
• 30% perlite or vermiculite
• 20% orchid bark or charcoal
• 10% sand

Alternatively, you can buy a ready-made "aroid mix" or "well-draining houseplant mix". The most important thing is that water drains well, but the plant doesn't dry out too quickly.

Care After Repotting

The first few weeks after repotting are crucial:

• Water moderately - don't fertilize until you see new growth
• Do not place in direct sunlight for several days
• Avoid relocation and temperature fluctuations
• Only fertilize after 4-6 weeks when the plant has adjusted

After a few weeks, you'll see your Ficus producing new growth in its new pot. This indicates that the repotting was successful!