It is tempting to celebrate a new plant with a beautiful new pot and a dose of fertiliser. Both are usually better left for later.
A new plant is already adjusting to different light, temperature and watering. Repotting adds root disturbance on top of that. Unless the plant is in real trouble, such as rotting roots, give it a few weeks to settle first. Arkansas Extension notes that plants from the greenhouse usually have enough nutrients to carry them for about two to three months.
Nebraska Extension advises not fertilising plants that are newly repotted, unrooted, dormant or wilted. A plant that is not actively growing cannot use the nutrients, and unused fertiliser salts can build up in the mix and damage roots.
Wait until you see steady new leaves or buds, which show the plant is growing again. That is the signal that it is ready for feeding and, if it needs it, a pot one size up.
Key points
- Do not repot a new plant straight away unless it is in trouble.
- Nursery plants usually have enough nutrients for a couple of months.
- Feed only when you see active new growth.
Try this
If you have a pretty pot waiting, place the new plant, still in its nursery pot, inside it as a cover pot for now, and check that water can drain out.
Check yourself
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Sources
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