Repotting Tropical Aroids: Stress-Free Method for a Healthy Plant

How to properly repot an Araceae without stressing the plant? 🌿

Araceae are among the most prized rare tropical plants in Europe , particularly for their graphic foliage and their adaptability. But be careful: repotting is a delicate step. If done incorrectly, it can cause significant stress, slow growth or even damage your plant. Here is a complete guide to gently repotting an Araceae (Alocasia, Philodendron, Anthurium...), with expert advice from Green and White Plants , specialists in rare tropical plants in France and Europe.

1⃣ When should you repot an Araceae?

🌟 Timing is key to limiting stress. Araceae, like all tropical indoor plants , have periods when they are more receptive to change.

Key points:

• ✅ Repot in spring or early summer , when the plant begins active growth.

• ⚡️ If the roots come out of the pot or the water stagnates: repot immediately.

• ❌ Avoid winter: the plant is dormant and more vulnerable.

Pro tip : Preventative repotting allows for continued growth and limits the risk of stress.

2⃣ Choose the right material and suitable substrate ⚖️

An Araceae needs a well-draining tropical substrate to thrive without stress. Choosing the right tools makes all the difference.

Materials needed:

• 🔳 Pot with drainage holes (2 to 4 cm wider than the previous one)

• ✈️ Clean pruning shears, gloves, basin of warm water

• 🪨 Substrate for rare tropical plants (coconut fiber, perlite, coconut chips)

• ⚪ Clay balls for the bottom of the pot

Green and White Plants Tip : Our custom blends are designed for the perfect balance between aeration , water retention and nutrition .

3⃣ Extract the plant gently 🪡

⚠️ Pulling too roughly can damage the roots. Here's how to do it stress-free:

Key steps:

• Water moderately the day before.

• Tap the sides of the pot to loosen the root ball.

• Pull gently from the base of the stems (not the leaves!)

• Gently remove the roots by hand.

Green and White Plants Tip : Trim black or soft roots with disinfected pruning shears to prevent fungus.

4⃣ Replant in an aerated tropical substrate 🛫

It's time to move your plant to a new, healthy environment.

Procedure:

• Create a drainage layer with clay balls.

• Add some substrate.

• Place your plant in the center and fill in the sides.

• Do not pack too much to keep the mixture light.

• Leave the collar visible (never buried).

Bonus : Use a coconut fiber stake to help Philodendrons or Monstera climb healthily.

5⃣ Post-repotting care to limit stress 🛌

Once repotted, your Araceae needs stability to restart peacefully.

Good gestures:

• 📏 Place it in indirect light

• 🌧️ Maintain humidity around 65%

• ⏰ Wait 5 to 7 days before the first watering

• ❌ Do not apply fertilizer for 3 to 4 weeks

Tip : If the leaves seem soft, don't worry. It's just a matter of time for them to adjust!

6⃣ Frequency of repotting and maintenance ♻️

Repotting too much or too little can be detrimental to the health of your rare tropical plants .

Recommended frequency:

• 😶 Every 12 to 18 months for young Araceae

• 🌿 Every 2 years for mature subjects

Between two repottings:

• Monitor pH (between 5.5 and 6.5)

• Provides organic fertilizer during growth

• Check that the substrate remains draining and healthy

📆 Conclusion: repot with peace of mind and grow your Araceae like a pro!

Repotting Araceae has no more secrets for you! By respecting their natural rhythm and choosing a well-adapted tropical substrate , you can ensure your plant gets a fresh start.

At Green and White Plants , we support you with rare tropical plants of quality acclimatized in Europe , as well as substrates specially designed for optimal growth .

🚀 Find our advice, our blends and our exclusive selection on our online store!