Since cacti are the ultimate succulent survivalists, they’re pretty low-maintenance and usually only need a new home every three to five years. These exotic beauties are slow growers, so they won’t outgrow their pots overnight. However, when the time finally comes to make the move, there are a few pro-tips you should keep in mind to keep your prickly friend happy.
When does my cactus need repotting?
It’s actually pretty easy to tell when your cactus is ready for an upgrade. First, if your plant has grown so much that you can’t even see the soil anymore, it’s definitely time for a bigger pot. You can also do a quick “checkup” by lifting the pot—if you see roots poking out through the drainage holes at the bottom, it’s time to move.
Pro-tip: Take a look at the soil itself. If it looks compacted, crusty, or just totally “spent,” your cactus is craving fresh nutrients and a new pot.
How should I prepare for the move?
Before you start handling your prickly pal, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Best timing: Aim for February/March or September/October.
- Stop watering about a week before you plan to repot.
- Protect your hands! Use thorn-proof gloves (thick leather or rubber-coated ones work best).
- No gloves? No problem. You can use several layers of folded newspaper or pieces of Styrofoam to grip the plant safely.
To get started, gently remove the cactus from its old pot and carefully shake the old soil off the root ball. If you notice any mushy or rotting roots, trim them off with a sharp, sterilized knife. Let the cactus air out in a shady spot (like on your porch) for about four hours so any cuts can dry and callouse over.
How do I actually repot my cactus?
Once your cactus is prepped, the rest is a breeze:
- Fill your new, larger container with a high-quality cactus or succulent potting mix.
- Place your cactus in the center.
- Make sure to plant it at the same depth it was sitting at before.
- Gently press the soil down around the base (a spoon works great for this!).
- Wait at least one week before giving your freshly repotted cactus its first drink of water.
One last thing: give your plant about three weeks to settle in before moving it back into a spot with direct sunlight. This gives it plenty of time to recover from the “moving day” stress!
