How To Repot A Anthurium (skg 'Ace Of Spades' X Papillilaminum) X Besseae Aff
Anthurium (SKG 'Ace of Spades' x papillilaminum) x besseae aff
Apr 26, 2024•4 min read
- Roots circling or escaping? Time to repot your Anthurium.
- 🌱 Choose the right pot: Terracotta for moisture control, plastic for lightness.
- Post-repot care: Bright, indirect light and proper watering are crucial.
Spotting the Tell-Tale Signs for Repotting
🌱 Root Tango in a Tight Pot
Roots circling the pot's interior or making a break for it through the drainage holes are a dead giveaway: your Anthurium is root-bound. It's not trying to escape Alcatraz; it's just begging for more space.
💧 Water, Water Everywhere, But Not a Drop to Drink
When water zips through the pot faster than a New York minute, leaving the soil bone dry, it's a sign. Your plant's roots have likely turned the pot into a root-only club, leaving no room for soil or water.
🚫 When Growth Hits a Wall
A plant that's stopped growing or looks as lively as a sloth on a lazy Sunday is sending you an SOS. Stunted growth and a top-heavy plant that tips over are your Anthurium's way of saying, "I need a bigger place."
Picking the Perfect Pot
💡 Material Matters: Terracotta vs. Plastic vs. Others
Selecting the right material for your Anthurium's pot is crucial. Terracotta is the go-to for many, thanks to its breathability and moisture control. It's like the jeans of the pot world—classic, sturdy, and gets better with age. However, it's heavy and can break your toe if it decides to take a tumble.
Plastic pots are the lightweight champs. They're easy to shuffle around and won't smash into a million pieces on impact. But they're a bit like a raincoat—great at holding moisture in, which can be a double-edged sword for your plant's roots if you're heavy-handed with the watering can.
Then there's ceramic—the sophisticate of the bunch. Heavy and often more decorative, they can add a touch of class to your space. Just make sure they have drainage holes, or you'll be hosting a root rot rave.
💡 Size It Up
When choosing the pot size, think of your plant's roots as dancers needing space to groove. Too tight, and they'll be stepping on each other's toes; too roomy, and they risk drowning in soil. Aim for a pot that's about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one—enough room for growth without leaving too much empty space.
Remember, a pot with drainage holes is non-negotiable. Without them, you're basically inviting standing water to a party at your plant's expense. So, unless you want a mosquito breeding ground, make sure those holes are there.
The Repotting Rundown
🌱 Out with the Old
Gently coax your Anthurium out of its pot; if it resists, a little squeeze and tap should do the trick. Inspect the roots closely—healthy ones look firm and white, while any that are dark, mushy, or suspiciously long need a trim. Use sterilized scissors for this delicate operation.
🌿 In with the New
Prepare the new pot by covering the drainage holes with screening material to prevent soil loss. Add a foundation layer of fresh potting mix, then position your Anthurium so it sits at the same depth as in its previous container. Surround the roots with more mix, but don't pack it down—think of it as tucking your plant into bed, not squashing it into a suitcase.
Aftercare: Helping Your Anthurium Settle In
💧 The First Watering
After the repotting dance, it's time for the first watering. Go for a thorough soak until water escapes freely from the drainage holes. Then, back off. Let the top inch of soil dry before even thinking about another watering session. Overwatering is your Anthurium's nemesis, so keep that watering can in check.
🌿 Adjusting to New Surroundings
Now, let's talk environment. Your Anthurium needs a stable home—bright, indirect light is the sweet spot. Direct sunlight is the villain here, capable of bleaching those lovely leaves. As for temperature, aim for a cozy 60-80 degrees F (15-26 degrees C). No temperature roller coasters, please. Keep conditions consistent, and your Anthurium will thank you by thriving.
Ensure your Anthurium thrives in its new pot by letting Greg remind you when it's time to water 🌱 after repotting, based on its unique needs.
