Repotting Alocasias
Repotting your alocasia is essential for it to thrive.
I think the best time to repot any houseplants is spring before they start active growth. But you should plan to change the pot regardless the season especially in these cases:
- When the roots are growing through the holes of the pot and when the roots are growing round in the pot
- When the plant stops growing or is growing slowly „eating” old leaves to produse new ones
- When the substrate (potting mix) looks compact and hard especially when it holds water for too long
How to choose the right pot?
Well, try to use a pot that is only slightly bigger than the current one. Alocasias like to have roots tight in the pot. And make sure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot.
The potting mix must be well-draining and airy. This is a very simple option for a potting mix:
1 part perlite
1 part orchid bark
1 part coco coir
How to report alocasia?
- Remove the plant from its current pot. Do it very gently by tapping the sides of the pot.
- Carefully try to loosen the roots.
- Remove any dead or damaged roots using sharp clean scisorrs or a knife. This is the best time to inspect the whole plant for any signs of problems like insects or illness
- Put a layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom of the new pot.
- Holding the plant in the the centre of the pot start filling it with the potting mix.
- Nicely fill in the remaining spacer of the pot with potting mix. Go gently around the base of the plant.
- Water thoroughly and let the water drain off the pot.
- Place the repotted alocasia in a half shaded place for a few days to allow it to recover from the stress of the repotting.