In the limited substrate volume of flower boxes and pots, balcony plants rely on regular repotting. Beginners underestimate the importance of this care measure or are not familiar with the correct procedure. After reading these instructions, beginners will be familiar with when and how to repot balcony plants perfectly.
When and how should balcony plants be repotted?
To optimally repot balcony plants, choose spring as the best time. Prepare a new, larger container with drainage and suitable substrate. Carefully remove the plant from the old pot, shake off the old soil, cut off dead roots and place the plant in the fresh substrate.
Best time is in spring
Repotting is the ideal revitalization treatment for all balcony plants that overwinter on the windowsill or in the basement. Spring is therefore an ideal date. For annual flowers in boxes and pots, it may make sense to switch to a larger container in the middle of summer. Stunted growth, diminishing blooms and crowded conditions are typical signals to repot balcony plants in summer.
Proper preparation is half the success – tips & tricks
The new container should be large enough so that there is at least 2 finger widths of space between the root ball and the wall. There should be no openings in the bottom so that excess water can drain away. Please place a drainage made of potsherds or expanded clay over the holes in the ground as effective protection against waterlogging. Match the fresh substrate exactly to the plant species that will extend their roots in it.
Step-by-step instructions – how to repot professionally
Once the flower box and pots are prepared, you can move the balcony plants to their new home. Follow these steps to do it right:
- Fill in fresh substrate up to half the height of the box or bucket
- Pot out each plant individually to shake or rinse off the old soil
- Cut off dried, dead roots and shoots
- Place the root ball on the substrate and secure it with one hand
- Fill in soil with the other hand until 2 cm below the edge
It is important to note that your balcony plants are not lower or higher after repotting than before. Press the soil down with your hands to prevent cavities from forming. Finally, water the root balls thoroughly with stale water.
Tip
Substrates for balcony plants are generally pre-fertilized. The supply of nutrients is sufficient for 6 to 8 weeks. After repotting, please only fertilize flowers, perennials and trees after this grace period.
