So, I noticed my begonia was looking a bit sad lately. The leaves were drooping, and it just didn’t seem happy. I figured it was time to give it a new home, so I decided to repot it.
First things first, I gathered all my supplies. I got a new pot that was just a bit bigger than the old one – I read somewhere that begonias don’t like to be too cramped. Of course, I also made sure the new pot had drainage holes. No one likes soggy feet, not even plants!
Then, I prepared the new potting mix. I just grabbed a bag of regular potting soil from the store. I’ve heard that some people get fancy with their soil mixes, but I keep it simple. Besides, I also heard that the elements of potting mix will break down over time and lose draining qualities and airspaces to hold oxygen. So, it’s good to repot or change the soil every couple of years.
Next, I gently removed the begonia from its old pot. I was careful not to yank it out. I just loosened the soil around the edges and gave it a little wiggle. The root ball came out pretty easily. I was surprised at how the plant’s roots hold all of the potting mix together. Then I knew it’s ready to be moved up.
I placed some fresh potting mix in the bottom of the new pot, then put the begonia on top. I filled in the rest of the pot with soil, making sure the plant was sitting at the same level as before. I patted down the soil gently to secure it.
Finally, I gave it a good watering. I read that you should avoid direct sunlight after repotting, so I placed it in a bright spot, but out of the harsh sun. I know it’s important to water carefully after repotting, so I did that.
Now, my begonia seems much happier! It’s perked up, and the leaves are no longer drooping. Fingers crossed, it’ll thrive in its new home. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on it and giving it the love it deserves. I heard that begonia put off a lot of water through transpiration through the day, and a lot of people grow them in hydroponics or terrariums. Maybe I will try that next time.
- Gathered supplies: new pot, potting mix
- Prepared new potting mix
- Removed begonia from old pot
- Placed begonia in new pot with fresh soil
- Watered thoroughly
- Placed in indirect sunlight
It’s really rewarding to see your plants doing well after you’ve taken care of them. Repotting can seem a bit daunting, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Just be gentle, and your plants will thank you for it!
