How to Transfer a Plant to Another Hanging Container

Plants need room to grow. A plant that outgrows its container becomes root bound and starts to weaken. The roots form a ball and can not absorb the nutrients and water needed for proper growth and optimum health. Transferring the plant into another hanging container allows the roots to spread out and keeps the plant healthy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hanging basket
• Potting soil
• Watering can

1. Choose a hanging container suitable for transplanting the plant. For severe root bound plants, the container needs to be two or three sizes larger than the original pot. For less compact roots, only go up one size.

2. Fill the new container about half way with potting soil. Be careful not to overfill the container.

3. Remove the plant from the old container and carefully spread out the roots. Comb the roots with your fingers like you would comb through your hair after a shower. Be gentle to eliminate any damage to the roots.

4. Make a well with your fingers in the center of the potting soil in the new container. Insert the plant into the well, taking the time to spread the roots. There should be no air pockets between the roots and the new soil. An air pocket allows bacteria and mold to grow, killing the plant.

5. Fill the new container with more potting soil if necessary. The plant should be visible from the crown, or base, of the stem above the soil line. Planting any deeper may result in the stem rotting off at the crown.

6. Water the newly transplanted plant thoroughly so no air pockets remain in the soil. Place the hanging container in the desired location and continue monitoring the water and light requirements as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Separate the plant into two containers if the growth is very large. Simply divide the root system in two by cutting straight down the middle with a sharp knife. Plant the two parts separately.

References

• Repotting Plants
• Repot a House Plant