The latest fad for building an orangery onto your home could mean a lot more people taking an interest in the decorative possibilities of houseplants. Similar to a greenhouse or conservatory, these rooms are usually light and warm, ideal growing conditions for many plants. As they are frequently used we have no excuse to forget to water our flowers and foliage, but there will come a time when even the best plants can wilt and droop.
So, how do you know if your plant is dying or just needs repotting? There are several indicators that will tell you if your plant has become too big for its pot. Stunted growth, wilting leaves and poor flowers are all signs that your plant is in need of help. By checking the bottom of the pot you will be able to see if roots are poking through the hole in the base, a definite cry for repotting.
If roots are visible on the surface of the soil or there are more roots than soil if you gently remove the plant from its pot then it is definitely time to buy some more compost and bigger pots.
If possible, try and repot your plants when they are dormant, before or after flowering, as this gives the plant time to recover from having its roots disturbed. For houseplants this is generally in the spring, before the summer growth. By following our simple guide to repotting your houseplants should continue to thrive and give you years of pleasure.