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This is the time of year to give the plants we already own a bit of love.
One of those acts of love is repotting plants.
Plants do not need to be repotted until roots are protruding from the holes in the bottom of the pot or, if you gently remove the plant from its pot, you find very little soil and mostly roots.
Never choose a pot more than five centimetres bigger than the previous pot. Otherwise, the plant will spend most of its energy growing roots in the much bigger pot jut to hold itself upright.
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If you fall in love with a pot that is much bigger than what your plant actually needs, put a pot inside a pot so your plant is in the correct sized pot. Then, place it in the new one and fill around the edges with rock to hold the pot in place.
Sometimes your plant does not need to be repotted, but a layer of fresh soil can be added. I like to loosen up the existing soil at the top of the pot with a skewer or chopstick and then add some fresh soil in the pot. You should always leave at least a one centimetre space at the top of the pot to prevent water from spilling over the edge.
Now is the time to fertilize your plants. I use a water soluble fertilizer at half strength.
Make sure all your plants are getting enough light and are not growing tall and spindly.
Take a break and visit your favorite greenhouse or garden centre and enjoy the warmth, sights, and smells of the world of gardening and plants.
Denise Hodgins is a professional gardening coach in London. Send your questions to coaching@diggendirtdesigns.com
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