How To Repot Alocasia Black Velvet

Black Velvet Alocasia, also known appropriately as the Little Queen, deserves all the plant adoration. Alocasia Black Velvet is one of the "jewel" Alocasias because it is a true gem of a houseplant. When you have a houseplant of this regal nature, keeping it happy with timely and conscientious repotting is essential.

Alocasia Black Velvet Happiness

Alocasias prefer slightly cramped quarters; they probably find a tight-fitting pot snug and secure. This means you don't have to worry about repotting your Black Velvet every year. But you don't want to overlook repotting just because your plant likes a cozy home.

Repotting is beneficial for all plants because it is a chance to renew the soil. As a houseplant, the primary way the plant accesses nutrients is through the soil. After a couple of years, even the best soil will start to be stripped of nutrients. Even if your Alocasia doesn't look like it needs a bigger home, it's a good idea to repot just to refresh the soil. You can repot it into the same pot – there's no rule you have to switch containers.

Signs Your Alocasia Black Velvet Needs Repotting

• Roots visibly on the soil surface

• Roots growing out of the pot's drainage holes

• Plant wilting between watering

• Slowed or stalled growth

• If there are more roots in the pot than soil (gently slide the plant partially out of the pot to check)

When Is The Best Time To Repot?

Spring or fall is the best time to repot any Alocasia. In Spring, the plant is at its strongest after resting all year. In fall, it is slowing down to begin a restful winter season. Repotting in summer disrupts the primary growing season and may cause more issues than it solves.

How To Repot Alocasia Step by Step

1. Choose a new container that is 2" wider than the original but no more than 6" wider. This is to prevent overwatering, which is a common problem with potting containers that are way too large.
   
   A nonporous container is preferable since a porous clay one will wick away moisture.
   
   If you're re-using a pot, wash it with a 10% bleach solution to kill any potential pests or diseases. Rinse it well after bleaching.
    

2. Water your Alocasia Black Velvet thoroughly an hour before repotting.
    

3. Fill the new container 1/3 with high-quality houseplant potting soil.
    

4. Gently slide the Alocasia from its container and inspect the roots.
   
   Look for signs of soft brown or mushy spots which indicate root rot (cut off any bad sections).
   
   Untangle the roots as best as possible. You may need to cut them apart – use sterilized shears or scissors to do this.
    

5. Place your Alocasia in the new container.
    

6. Repot it at the same depth as in the original container – this usually means strategically filling in the soil around the plant until it is at the same level.
    

7. Once the plant is arranged at the proper level, fill in all around it with potting soil, so the entire root ball is covered.
    

8. Firmly press the soil around the roots to collapse any air pockets that have formed.
    

9. Place your repotted Alocasia in a location with lots of indirect light and warmth and care for as usual.

After Care For Your Newly Repotted Alocasia

Here's something you'll have to be ready for after repotting. Some plants get really distressed during the repotting ordeal, even if you've been as gentle as possible. There are just some that are more sensitive than others. Don't be surprised if your Alocasia Black Velvet acts sad and droopy for a week or two – it's okay!

It just takes some a bit more time to adjust to their new home and figure out what to do with all the new space to stretch out. Just continue watering your plant as needed, keep it warm with lots of indirect sunlight, and it will bounce back soon enough.