Coffee plants aren’t exactly speed demons when it comes to growth, but don’t let that fool you—they are heavy feeders! When you repot a coffee plant, you aren’t just giving it more legroom; you’re mainly refreshing that tired, worn-out soil. Fresh, nutrient-dense potting mix acts like a long-term vitamin boost for your leafy friend.
When to Repot
Unlike many other indoor shrubs that get moved around in the fall, coffee plants prefer a spring makeover. Generally, giving them a new home every two to three years is plenty.
However, there are a few “emergency” situations where you’ll want to repot sooner. If you spot any root pests, get that plant into fresh soil immediately. The same goes for when you see roots poking out through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. While coffee plants are pretty hardy overall, their roots are surprisingly sensitive. Damaged or cramped roots can lead to yellow leaves that might eventually drop off. Keeping those roots happy and spacious is key!
The Best Soil Mix
Your coffee plant wants a soil that is rich in nutrients but still breathes well. A high-quality, fresh potting soil works great. You don’t need to mix in any extra fertilizer right away; in fact, you can usually wait about six months before you need to start fertilizing your coffee plant again.
For the bottom layer, use expanded clay pebbles (like LECA) for drainage. I’d recommend staying away from purely mineral-based drainage or soils with a very high mineral content. While coffee plants do need a tiny bit of minerals, too much can actually cause long-term damage.
Step-by-Step Guide
Start by gently removing your coffee plant from its old pot. Take a good look at the roots to check for any pests or signs of disease. Keep an eye out for root rot (usually caused by soggy soil) or grubs that might be snacking on the roots, which prevents the plant from drinking properly.
How to repot like a pro:
- Gently shake off the old, depleted soil.
- Snip away any dead or mushy roots.
- Fill the new pot with a layer of clay pebbles for drainage and a bit of fresh soil.
- Center your coffee plant in the pot.
- Fill the rest with soil and press down lightly to stabilize it.
- Leave a little space at the top (a “watering rim”) so water doesn’t overflow.
- Give it a good drink to settle the soil.
For the first few weeks while your plant is getting settled in its new home, make sure to keep the soil consistently moist so the roots can establish themselves.
