I have a number of houseplants that if possible, I'd like to keep in their current pots. Some of them are losing their soil so I was just planning on adding in more soil and trimming down the roots. I really don't want large houseplants and don't want to keep buying larger and larger pots if at all possible. I don't have the room for large plants nor do I want them. Can houseplants remain in the same pot forever? Can you simply just maintain them in the same pot year after year? If yes, what's the best way to go about that? Do I need to fertilize everytime I add new soil? thanks.
2007-03-30 11:14:02 · 5 answers · asked by Arleen 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Garden & Landscape
The size of the root system is what maintains the size of the plant. So if you cut back on the root system, then you have to cut back the size of the plant so that there is enough root system to sustain the foliage. I'm sure there are also house plants that don't take kindly to root disturbance, so you may lose a few in the process.
You might want to consider using a transplant fertilizer at the time you repot if you are cutting back the roots. You have to be very careful in following the instructions. Too much fertilizer can seriously damage the plant.
2007-03-30 11:27:34 · answer #1 · answered by Lily 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the plant. Some tropical species' actually prefer to have their root systems really cramped. Do some research in a simple houseplant book (can be purchased at Home Depot) and see what's up.
That said, the above posts are generally true. Especially the new soil one. If you don't put in some fresh soil, salts and minerals in your water will build up in the pot (and it's current soil). Obviously this is bad for your plant.
Dont trust the advice of anyone who brags about their "Master Gardener" classes. It's usually just a bunch of ol' wives tales and very very antiquated information.
2007-03-30 13:04:48 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You didn't mention the types of plants you have. Apparently you are taking good care of them to be thriving the way they are. Pick the plant out of the pot. Look at the roots--only if they are root bound would I repot them. If they are root bound either try trimming the roots and put new soil in it, or divide the plant and give it to a friend or neighbor --they will appreciate it. Fertilizing once a month will keep the plant healthy. If they are thriving well--dont fool with it unless it is root bound.
2007-04-01 01:39:38 · answer #3 · answered by lucy g 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Same pot different soil. the soil is what counts unless the plant is huge
Be blessed!!
2007-03-30 11:23:41 · answer #4 · answered by sweet_classy_lady_2000 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they can stay in their pots, but won't grow any more. trim the roots. use good soil.
2007-03-30 11:22:42 · answer #5 · answered by wendy_da_goodlil_witch 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋