When your indoor houseplant becomes too big for its pot or when you purchase a new plant in a temporary pot, you will need to transplant.  This is a simple task that can be accomplished in a free afternoon with a few supplies.  If you have several plants, make a marathon of it and get them all done at once so you have only one mess to clean up.

Shopping list:

• Replacement pot at least one size larger than your existing pot
• All-purpose indoor potting soil
• Fertilizer

Allow your plant to dry out somewhat before attempting to transplant.  Soggy soil can fall apart when you try to transplant, making a mess and damaging the plant.

Prepare the new plant by filling it about one-third full with potting soil.  Tap the pot against the ground to settle the dirt down.  The dirt should leave enough room to place the plant, including all of the dirt from the old pot, while leaving 1-2 inches of headspace at the top.

If your plant is in a temporary pot, you can gently squeeze the sides of the pot to help loosen the roots and soil first.  Then, cup the base of the plant with one hand while carefully overturning the pot with the other.  The plant should slide out into your hand, or you can slide a knife around the edge of the pot to help loosen the dirt and roots and then try gently pulling with one hand.

Carefully separate the roots to help them get a good hold in the new pot.  Place the plant into the new pot, making sure it sets level in the pot and has 1 inch of headspace.  Begin adding potting soil, massaging it in between the roots to ensure there are no air pockets.  Fill the pot with new potting soil until it is level with the top of the plant, tamping the soil down periodically.

Water in your plant, adding fertilizer if desired.  Your plant should settle into its new pot without any trouble.