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Plant Care

Step-by-step guides for repotting, pruning, and propagating—clear and easy to follow.

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Repotting

Repotting: When & How

How to tell when a plant needs repotting and a stress-free step-by-step repot.

Pruning

Pruning & Shaping

Simple pruning techniques to encourage bushier growth and keep plants tidy.

Propagation

Propagation Basics

Leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and division explained with pictures.

Soil Mixes

Soil & Potting Mixes

Choose the right mix per plant type (succulent vs tropical vs bonsai).

Repotting
Pruning
Soil Mixes
Propagation

When to Repot Your Plant

Look for these signs:

Roots growing out of drainage holes
Water runs straight through without absorbing
Plant becomes top-heavy and tips over easily
Growth has slowed despite proper care
Soil dries out extremely quickly
Roots visible circling the soil surface

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plants are actively growing

Step-by-Step Repotting

1

Gather Your Tools

New pot (1-2 inches larger), fresh potting soil, newspaper or mat, watering can, pruning shears

2

Water the Plant

Water 1-2 days before repotting to reduce transplant shock

3

Remove from Current Pot

Gently squeeze sides of pot and tip plant out. Support the base of the stem.

4

Inspect & Prune Roots

Check for root rot (black, mushy roots). Trim damaged roots with clean shears. Loosen tight root balls gently.

5

Prepare New Pot

Add 2-3 inches of fresh soil to bottom. Ensure drainage holes are clear.

6

Position Plant

Center plant in new pot at same depth as before. Fill sides with soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets.

7

Water & Settle

Water thoroughly until draining. Add more soil if it settles. Place in bright, indirect light for recovery.

Maintenance Tips

Keep soil lightly moist (not soggy) for the first 2 weeks. Avoid fertilizing for 4-6 weeks to let roots recover. Some leaf drop is normal — be patient!

Pruning & Shaping

Why Prune?

✓ Encourage Bushier Growth

Pinching tips stimulates side branching

✓ Remove Dead Material

Prevents disease and improves appearance

✓ Control Size

Keep plants manageable for your space

✓ Improve Air Circulation

Reduces pest and fungal problems

Basic Pruning Techniques

🔪 Clean Cuts

Always use sharp, clean pruning shears. Dull blades crush stems and invite disease. Wipe blades with alcohol between plants.

📐 Cut at an Angle

Make cuts at 45° angle just above a leaf node or bud. This encourages new growth at that point.

🌿 Remove Yellow/Brown Leaves

Cut at the base of the leaf stem. Don't leave stubs that can rot.

✂️ Pinch Growing Tips

For bushier growth, pinch or cut the top 1-2 inches of stems on vining plants.

Soil & Potting Mixes

Tropical

Tropical Plant Mix

For Monstera, Pothos, Philodendron, Peace Lily

  • 60% peat moss or coco coir
  • 20% perlite
  • 10% bark chips
  • 10% compost

Retains moisture while draining well

Succulent

Succulent & Cactus Mix

For Succulents, Cacti, Aloe, Jade Plant

  • 50% regular potting soil
  • 25% coarse sand
  • 25% perlite or pumice

Fast-draining to prevent root rot

Orchid

Orchid & Epiphyte Mix

For Orchids, Bromeliads, Air Plants

  • 60% bark chips (medium)
  • 20% perlite
  • 10% sphagnum moss
  • 10% charcoal

Excellent drainage and air circulation

Propagation Basics

Stem Cuttings (Pothos, Philodendron, Monstera)

Choose Healthy Stem

Select 4-6 inch stem with 2-3 leaves. Cut just below a node (bump where leaves grow).

Prepare Cutting

Remove lower leaves. Optional: dip cut end in rooting hormone.

Root in Water or Soil

Water: Place in clear glass, change water weekly. Soil: Insert in moist potting mix.

Wait for Roots

2-4 weeks in bright, indirect light. Plant when roots are 2-3 inches long.

Leaf Cuttings (Succulents, African Violets, Begonias)

Remove Healthy Leaf

Gently twist off entire leaf, keeping base intact. Let callous for 1-2 days.

Place on Soil

Lay leaf on top of dry soil mix. Don't bury or water yet.

Wait for Babies

2-6 weeks: tiny plantlets form at leaf base. Mist soil lightly once roots appear.

Separate & Pot

Once baby plant is 1-2 inches, gently separate and pot individually.

Division (Snake Plant, Spider Plant, Peace Lily)

Best for clumping plants. Remove from pot and gently separate into sections, each with roots and shoots. Pot each section in fresh soil and water well.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I repot my plant?

How do I prune without damaging the plant?

What potting mix should I use for succulents vs tropicals?

How long does propagation take?

Can I propagate any plant?

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