Repot flowering houseplants in spring, when new growth starts. Clemson says to repot only as needed during spring and summer while the plant is actively growing, and not to repot ailing or dormant plants or those beginning to flower. The RHS: how to repot a plant says to avoid autumn and winter, when fresh compost can stay too wet, and to go up no more than one third larger in pot size.
When and how often
| Source | What it says |
|---|---|
| Clemson | When new growth starts in spring; fast-growing plants annually, slow-growing every two to three years |
| RHS (general) | Every three to five years for most plants; avoid autumn and winter |
| RHS gardenia | Ideally every spring, into a slightly larger container |
| RHS hoya | In spring, into a pot only a few centimetres larger |
| RHS frangipani | Every other year, in February or March |
Signs it is time
Clemson lists roots in a solid mass around the rootball, roots growing out of the drainage hole, and a plant that needs frequent watering or wilts soon after. The RHS describes roots spiralling around the bottom of the container or growing through the holes, and compost that has slumped.
Pot size and steps
Clemson says choose a pot 1 or 2 inches larger in diameter. The RHS says no more than one third larger, and 2.5 to 5 cm wider for containers under 25 cm. Both say to loosen tight roots, set the rootball so its top sits just below the rim, and water well. The RHS says that if you repot into the same container, you can prune off up to a quarter of the outermost roots.
Plants that dislike root disturbance
NC State says stephanotis appears to do best slightly root bound (see Stephanotis Indoor Care), and the RHS says not to move hoyas once buds form. Gardenia repotting and bud drop are covered in Repotting Gardenia and Bud Drop.
What the sources do not cover
They give no repotting advice specific to lavender, osmanthus or scented geranium (the RHS pelargonium guide says to repot in mid-spring after overwintering). Which mix to use depends on the plant, for example Best Potting Mix for Hoya.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to repot?
Spring, when new growth starts, according to Clemson and the RHS.
How much bigger should the new pot be?
The RHS says no more than one third larger; Clemson says 1 or 2 inches wider.
Should I repot a plant in flower?
Clemson says not to repot plants that are beginning to flower.
Sources read for this page
- Clemson HGIC: Repotting
- RHS: how to repot a plant
- RHS hoya growing guide
- RHS gardenia guide
- RHS frangipani guide
Last reviewed 15 October 2026. Written by Md. Firozur Rahman. This page gives general guidance and cannot diagnose a plant from a description; see the Disclaimer.
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