If you are transplanting a seedling, wait until it forms a pair of true leaves. True leaves are hardier than the delicate leaves you see at first.

You want to cover the drainage hole so that the soil doesn’t fall out. The water will still be able to come out. If the new pot doesn’t have a drainage hole, fill the pot with 1 to 2 inches (2. 5 to 5. 1 cm) of gravel.

Gardening soil often contains insects, diseases, and fungi. Your plant is not used to these, and it can get sick or die as a result. For the healthiest, happiest plant, look for soil that contains equal parts of rich loam, sand/perlite, and organic matter. [4] X Research source If you are transplanting a seedling, fill the pot to within 1 inch (2. 5 cm) of the rim. Dampen the soil with warm water and wait 1 hour.

Do not grab the plant by the stem and pull it out. Break the pot instead as a last resort. If you are transplanting a seedling, use a spoon to carefully dig the seedling out. Hold it by a leaf, never by the stem.

If you can’t loosen the root ball, use a sharp, clean knife to slice into the sides of the root ball; make the slices 1⁄8 to 1⁄8 inch (0. 32 to 0. 32 cm) deep. Be sure to cut away any dead or rotten roots with sharp, clean scissors.

If you are working with a seedling, poke a hole into the soil, then tuck the seedling inside. Pat the soil around the seedling.

If the pot has a drainage hole, keep watering until water comes out of the hole. If the plant does not have a drainage hole, use your best judgement.

If the plants start to wilt, mist them with water, then cover them with plastic wrap. Keep them in a cool area, away from direct sunlight for 1 to 2 days.

If you notice the roots poking out of the drainage hole, it’s time for a new pot!

Take the plant outside in the morning each day. You will leave it outside 1 hour longer every day.

It would be best to buy the soil from the store. This way, you can ensure that it is pest, disease, and fungi free.

Do not grab the plant by the stem and pull it out. This can damage the plant.

If the root ball is still too firm, make 1/8 to 1/4-inch (0. 32 to 0. 64-cm) deep incisions into the root ball with a clean knife. Skip this step if the plant is in a peat or paper pot.

For even better results, add some fertilizer into the water. Be sure to use the right type for your plant, however!