Is it okay to change potting soil of potted plants?

[scottischicken]

Is it okay to change potting soil of potted plants every six months because the label on the bag of potting soil says that it only feeds up to 6 months? Will changing the soil put the plant into some sort of shock? Or will the plant easily adapt to the new soil?

 

[rosemarythyme]

In most cases you can, though some plants don't like being disturbed as much. But wouldn't it be 100x easier to just add fertilizer as needed rather than replace the soil?

 

[Callender Girl]

I try to avoid repotting as much as possible (partly because I see it as too much work ). Adding a little fertilizer is easier, quicker and probably cheaper, in my opinion. And, I think it's less stressful on the plant because the roots aren't being moved about.

 

[scottischicken]

Also, I have an indoor potted pineapple plant that became two separate crowns. They are still joined in the roots, but can I break them apart by cutting the roots in half? Do I immediately add fertilizer, or just water and sunshine for now?

 

[rosemarythyme]

Also, I have an indoor potted pineapple plant that became two separate crowns. They are still joined in the roots, but can I break them apart by cutting the roots in half? Do I immediately add fertilizer, or just water and sunshine for now?

Not familiar with that plant so not sure what to suggest.

Assuming you're re-planting them in separate pots that would be an appropriate time to fertilize, assuming the soil used isn't new potting mix (too much fertilizer can burn out plants as well).