Table of Contents
Chinese Money Plants, also known as Pilea peperomioides, are popular houseplants loved for their unique round leaves and easy care. As they grow, many plant owners wonder whether to repot or divide their plant to promote healthy growth. Understanding the differences between repotting and dividing can help you make the best decision for your plant’s health.
What Is Repotting?
Repotting involves transferring the plant into a larger pot to accommodate its growth. This process refreshes the soil, provides more space for roots, and can improve overall health. Repotting is typically done every one to two years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
What Is Dividing?
Dividing is a propagation method where you separate a mature plant into smaller sections, each with roots and leaves. This technique is often used when the plant has developed multiple stems or offsets that can be grown independently. Dividing helps increase the number of plants and rejuvenates older, overcrowded specimens.
When to Repot Your Chinese Money Plant
Repot your Chinese Money Plant when:
- The plant has outgrown its current pot.
- The soil appears exhausted or drains poorly.
- The plant shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots growing out of drainage holes.
- It has been over a year since the last repotting.
When to Divide Your Chinese Money Plant
Divide your plant when:
- The plant has multiple stems or offsets that can be separated.
- The plant appears overcrowded or is not growing vigorously.
- You want to propagate new plants from an established specimen.
- The plant is mature and has developed multiple growth points.
How to Repot Your Chinese Money Plant
Follow these steps to repot your Chinese Money Plant:
- Choose a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
- Use well-draining potting soil suitable for succulents or houseplants.
- Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosening the roots if necessary.
- Place the plant in the new pot, filling around the roots with soil.
- Water lightly and place in indirect sunlight to recover.
How to Divide Your Chinese Money Plant
To divide your plant:
- Remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil.
- Identify natural divisions or offsets with their own roots.
- Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to separate the sections if necessary.
- Plant each division in its own pot with fresh soil.
- Water lightly and keep in bright, indirect light.
Conclusion
Both repotting and dividing are effective methods to promote the health and growth of your Chinese Money Plant. Repotting is ideal for general maintenance and when the plant outgrows its current container. Dividing is perfect for propagation and revitalizing an overcrowded plant. Choose the method that best suits your plant’s needs and your gardening goals.