Repotting a cactus can give it new life and reignite its growth. But it’s important to consider soil, timing, technique, and more to ensure a successful outcome.
Start by ensuring the cactus is sufficiently rooted into its current pot. Gently grip the base of the plant and carefully pull until it is freed from the soil. If there is resistance when lifting, it likely means the roots are robust enough for transplantation.
Tip: Use appropriate protection—gloves or a cloth—when handling spiny varieties.
Next, choose an appropriately-sized vessel for your new home—one size larger than what you’re already using, if possible. Cacti need room for their roots to spread; otherwise, they’ll become top-heavy and prone to tipping over. Using a pot with drainage holes will also prevent overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Fill the bottom quarter of your pot with minerals, including pumice stone or perlite, which aid drainage and aeration, then cover it with specialized, well-draining soil before adding your cactus carefully back into position. Take note of how deep it’s been planted, as this helps ensure adequate sunlight penetration when replanting in shallow pots later down the track.
Finally, firm up the soil around the base firmly but gently, taking extra care not re-bury any spines which may have previously been exposed while removing it from the old pot initially.
Give your pruned specimen some water immediately after repotting—just make sure to wait awhile first if you suspect its existing environment was soggy like clay-based soils tend to be—and continue a regular watering schedule thereafter, allowing between soakings until the surface dries out completely each time before rehydrating again.