Repot with less stress

Look for real signs

Roots circling tightly, a mix that dries unusually fast, unstable top growth or damaged compacted media are useful signs. A few roots at the drainage hole do not automatically mean the plant is in trouble.

Move up one sensible size

An oversized pot stays wet for too long around a small root system. Choose a container only slightly wider, with reliable drainage, and prepare the correct mix before you remove the plant.

Inspect, do not overwork

Loosen only what is necessary. Trim dead, hollow or mushy roots with clean tools; keep firm healthy roots. Set the plant at roughly the same depth unless the species requires otherwise.

Time the recovery

Repot during a stable period of active growth, often spring or early autumn indoors. Keep newly repotted plants away from peak heat, direct sun and strong AC. Water according to the new mix rather than repeating the old schedule.