Repotting will give roots more space to grow, reducing the possibility of your bushes becoming stunted.
Keep in mind, however, that repotting certain species – such as Norfolk Island pine – can encourage them to grow beyond their bounds, to a towering height that may no longer fit your space.
Again, keep the growth rate and potential height and spread of your selected plants at maturity in mind, and consider your pot options and need for upsizing accordingly.
Plants will grow, but your space will not.
You may not want to put a tiny container on a large deck if you are aiming to create a focal point, or you may struggle to function normally through the winter with a giant pot in your living room.
Note the square footage that you have available in your chosen location, measure in all dimensions, and consider nearby plants and furniture as well.
Planting Instructions
After you’ve made your pick and chosen your pot, it’s time to plant!
To plant your shrub, start by lining the bottom of the pot with rocks or porous landscaping fabric, to keep drainage holes from becoming clogged with soil.
Next, remove the plant from the nursery pot and gently loosen the soil around the outside of the root ball.
If the plant is root bound, shake it gently or spray it off with water from the hose to remove some of the soil, and gently pry the roots apart.
Repot in your chosen container using equal parts potting soil, compost, and sand.
Do not use soil from the garden, as it will not drain well enough for container growing, and this could lead to rot.
If planting tropical shrubs, use a soilless mixture, or try replacing the potting soil from the nursery with shredded pine bark.
Sprinkle a layer of the potting medium at the bottom of the pot, and set the plant on top. Add or remove potting material as necessary, to settle the top of the roots about an inch below the rim.
Once the plant is set, add more potting mix around the roots, tamping it down as you go to remove air pockets.
The final soil level should be even with the top of the roots, covering them.
