Can Plants Be Repotted in Winter?
The cold season often leaves people hesitating about plant care, especially the operation of repotting, which requires more caution. Many flower enthusiasts are puzzled about whether it is suitable to repot in low temperatures. Actually, as long as the correct method is mastered, some cold-tolerant plants can be successfully repotted and rejuvenated in winter.
Criteria for Choosing Plants for Winter Repotting
Cold Resistance Assessment
It is safest to choose plants native to temperate regions or those with dormant characteristics. These varieties can maintain root activity in temperatures between 5-15°C. Observe the plant's growth state in winter, and if there are signs of new buds sprouting, it is suitable for repotting.
Recommended Varieties for Winter Repotting
Leafy plants such as Epipremnum aureum, Sansevieria, and Chlorophytum comosum have a survival rate of over 85% when repotted in winter.Woody flowers like roses and gardenias should be repotted during the dormant period around the winter solstice, in conjunction with indoor constant temperature conditions.
Key Operational Techniques
Water and Fertilizer Control Pre-treatment
Stop watering 7 days before repotting to allow the soil to contract and make it easier to remove the plant from the pot. When loosening the soil ball along the pot wall with a bamboo skewer, retaining 1/3 of the protective soil can reduce root damage. After pruning the rotting roots, soak in carbendazim for 20 minutes for disinfection.
Substrate Proportion and Container Selection
Mix vermiculite, peat soil, and perlite in a ratio of 2:1:1 and add a small amount of bone meal to enhance cold resistance. The new pot should be 3-5 cm larger in diameter than the original pot, with red pottery pots being more breathable than plastic containers.
Three Steps of Care After Repotting
Temperature and Light Control
Maintain an ambient temperature of 12-18°C and avoid placing it near radiators or air conditioner outlets. For the first two weeks, place it on an east-facing windowsill to receive 3 hours of gentle sunlight daily.
Water Management Techniques
Water the plant with warm water at 25°C for the initial watering, then maintain the soil in a slightly moist state. Use foliar sprays to maintain 60% humidity to prevent new leaf edge browning.
By mastering the golden period for winter repotting and key care points, it is possible to revitalize green plants even in cold seasons. Focus on the three core elements: plant variety selection, substrate improvement, and temperature control management, and help the plants safely through the adaptation period of repotting with a step-by-step care approach.