If you keep the coral shrub as a container plant, you should repot it every year so that it thrives. Our instructions show you how to do this.
Always repot your coral shrub (Erythrina) at the end of hibernation. This means that the roots immediately have fresh substrate and more space available in the beginning of the growth phase. The tub should be slightly larger than the pot used the previous year. Since the repotting takes place annually, you don't have to make too big a leap here. Holes in the bottom of the bucket are very important so that the water can later drain off unhindered.
How to properly transplant your coral bush
❶ Rinse roots and remove rotten strands
Carefully pull the coral bush out of the pot, grasping the lower part of the plant if possible. If the coral bush is very stuck, it is best to have a second person hold the pot to the bottom while you pull.
Next, rinse the root ball with lukewarm water. This loosens old substrate and gives you a better view of the individual root strands. Rotten and dead strands should be removed with a disinfected, sharp knife. If you have to cut a lot of diseased roots, you should cover the cuts with powdered charcoal. This is not necessary if only a few strands are removed.
❷ Add drainage layer and substrate to pot
The coral shrub does not tolerate waterlogging. You should therefore create a drainage layer of gravel or expanded clay in the pot. This way no moisture can accumulate in the pot. Then put potting soil enriched with mature compost on top of this layer.
❸ Plant the coral bush in the pot
Now place the root ball exactly in the middle of the pot and heap up substrate evenly from all sides. Press the substrate firmly with your hands and make sure that a pouring rim is retained at the top. If the pouring rim is missing, you will have constant trouble with water spilling over.
❹ Water and fertilize after repotting
Water the coral bush vigorously after repotting. Also in the aftermath you need the plantwater regularly and extensively. You can do without fertilizing for a period of four to six weeks after repotting, as the fresh substrate contains enough nutrients.