Repotting Basket Grass Plants: A Step-by-Step Guide

Basket grass known botanically as Oplismenus hirtellus is a delightful trailing plant that can add an airy, textured look to both indoor and outdoor spaces. However, keeping your basket grass happy and healthy means repotting it periodically. Repotting gives the plant fresh soil, allows the roots to spread out, and encourages new growth. Follow this comprehensive guide to smoothly repot your basket grass plant.

When To Repot Basket Grass

Timing is key when repotting basket grass. The ideal time is during the active growing season in spring and summer. Repotting in fall or winter can shock the plant. Watch for these signs it’s time to repot:

• Roots visible through drainage holes
• Poor drainage or waterlogged soil
• Stunted growth
• Overgrown roots circling the pot
• Plant appearing rootbound or top heavy

Repot basket grass annually as a routine maintenance practice. Mature plants may only need repotting every 2-3 years.

Preparing for Repotting

Gather these supplies before repotting your basket grass

• Potting soil formulated for indoor plants
• Container 1-2 inches larger than current pot
• Trowel, gloves, scissors
• Watering can

Inspect the plant’s root system and use scissors to trim any circled or damaged roots. This encourages fresh growth.

Step-By-Step Repotting Process

Follow these steps to smoothly transition your basket grass to a new container:

Remove from Current Pot

• Tip the plant upside down, cradling the base in one hand
• Gently slide the plant out, loosening the roots if needed
• Inspect and trim the roots as required

Prepare New Container

• Choose a pot with drainage holes, 1-2 inches larger than old pot
• Add new potting mix to fill 1/3 of the container
• Position plant in the center and fill in around sides with mix

Water Thoroughly

• Water well to settle soil and eliminate air pockets
• Allow excess water to drain fully from the bottom

Provide Aftercare

• Place in bright, indirect light
• Resume normal care routine, allowing soil to partly dry out between waterings
• Hold off fertilizing for 2-3 weeks until established

Potting Mix for Basket Grass

Use a high-quality potting mix formulated for indoor plants when repotting basket grass. Key characteristics to look for:

• Good drainage and aeration
• Moisture-retentive
• Nutrient-rich to support growth
• Lightweight for indoor plants

You can make your own mix by combining:

• 2 parts potting soil
• 1 part perlite or bark chips for drainage
• 1 part peat moss to retain moisture

Avoid regular garden soil, as it can become too heavy and compacted for container plants.

Choosing the Right Pot for Basket Grass

Consider these factors when selecting a new pot for your basket grass:

• Drainage – Be sure pots have adequate drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.

• Size – Size up just 1-2 inches larger than the previous pot for optimal growth.

• Material – Porous terracotta pots promote healthy roots. Plastic and glazed ceramic offer bright color options.

• Shape – Match the pot shape to how you want the basket grass to trail – round, hanging, or cascading pots work well.

• Weight – Lightweight plastic pots are best for hanging or wall-mounted displays.

Caring for Newly Repotted Basket Grass

Help your basket grass recover quickly with proper aftercare:

• Place in medium to bright indirect light.

• Resist overwatering; allow soil to partly dry out between waterings.

• Hold off fertilizing until new roots establish, about 2-3 weeks.

• Keep away from drafts and maintain steady temperatures.

• Monitor for signs of transplant shock like wilting.

• Adjust watering and light if plant shows signs of distress.

• Keep a consistent care regimen to avoid added stress.

How Repotting Benefits Basket Grass

Repotting offers basket grass plants several important benefits:

• The roots gain more room to spread out and grow.

• Fresh potting mix rejuvenates the plant with new nutrients.

• Improved drainage prevents waterlogging.

• Larger pots support mature plants and prevent tipping.

• Repotting controls root spiraling and promotes healthy growth.

• It’s a chance to prune damaged roots and stems.

• Aesthetically, new pots allow you to update the look or placement.

Make repotting your basket grass a regular part of its care routine. Time it properly, use fresh quality potting mix, select an appropriately sized pot, and provide attentive aftercare to keep your plant thriving. With the right approach, repotting is an invigorating reboot that your basket grass is sure to appreciate.