How to Replant Succulents: 3 Signs Repotting Is Necessary

Succulents are drought-resistant plants with thick, fleshy leaves. Succulent leaves store water, which help the plant thrive in arid, desert climates. [Succulents](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/indoor-and-outdoor-succulent-guide) are not synonymous with cacti. While nearly every variety of cactus is a succulent, not all succulents are cacti. Botanists categorize succulent varieties into large genus groups that include *Aeonium*, [*Echeveria*](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/echeveria-succulent-guide), and *Sedum*. These different categories include various species that grow vibrant, multicolored leaves, needles, or tail-like fronds. Some of these ornamental plants have a layered, rosette-like growing pattern that can enhance your home decor with color or even other-worldly beauty. Succulents, like aloe vera plants or [snake plants](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/snake-plant-guide), are excellent options for decorative house plants because they are extremely low-maintenance compared to other indoor plants. However, you should consider these clear signs that your succulent might require repotting: 1. __The plant has outgrown its current pot__. If new roots begin to appear above the surface of the potting soil or through the drainage holes at the bottom, then your plant will require a larger pot filled with fresh soil to thrive. Although the majority of a growing succulent’s energy goes toward leaf growth, new roots will burrow quickly to provide the plant with stability. 2. __Your succulent is still in its garden center pot__. Once you have brought your new succulent home after purchasing it, you should transplant it to a new pot. Garden centers often store succulents for short-term display in flimsy plastic containers and generic potting mix. New plants prefer a free-draining soil mix or a specialized succulent soil with perlite and bark. 3. __The potting soil is soggy or depleted of nutrients__. Slow growth, discoloration of the leaves, and mold or mildew on top of the soil are all tell-tale signs that your DIY succulent garden is experiencing root rot. Insect infestation and fungal disease can spread quickly through a root system, so you should act quickly to remedy the issue. Let the repotted plant dry for a few days after you replant it in cactus mix and use a misting spray bottle to guard against overwatering it in the future. Transplanting or replanting succulents can be a straightforward process since these plants have durable, fibrous root systems that grow at a shallow level in the soil. Simply dig around the plant with a trowel, and try not to sever the outer fibers of the root ball. Knock off any excess dirt. Replant the succulent into a different pot that you’ve filled with sand, pebbles, and a [soil mix](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/cactus-soil-mix-guide) that will stimulate new growth for your specific type of succulent. Wait a few days for the roots to take hold in their new home before you begin your watering schedule. Propagating a succulent is a relatively simple process. Follow these steps to learn how to [propagate](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-propagate-plants) your succulent plant: 1. __Take cuttings__. Removing mature leaves from an existing plant is the most simple technique of succulent propagation. Use scissors or shears to snip off a few leaves or offshoots from the mother plant. Take care when using sharp tools, so you avoid damaging the original plant. 2. __Allow the cuttings to callus over__. Some succulent varieties can start putting out roots and taking hold in the soil the same day you remove a leaf from the mother plant. However, to ensure a successful leaf propagation, try allowing the cut ends of the leaves to callus over a few days by placing them in a dry place where they will not receive direct sunlight. 3. __Replant the cuttings__. Move the callused leaves to a new pot containing succulent soil. Tamp down the earth around the base of each leaf and wait twenty-four hours before you add water. Place the pot in a windowsill with direct sunlight and wait for the baby plants to form—this should occur in roughly a month. Grow your own garden with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/) and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community - and the world - a better place. Learn how to repot, replant, or propagate your succulent plants with these simple tips and techniques.