🌿 📌 Repotting a Turtle Shell Alocasia: From a 12 cm Nursery Pot to a 25 cm Transparent Slit Pot
I purchased this Turtle Shell Alocasia in a 12 cm nursery pot from a flower shop.
The plant looked healthy, but the root ball was already compact, and it clearly needed more space.
So I decided to repot it into a 25 cm transparent slit pot to encourage stronger root growth and larger leaves.
Here is the full step-by-step journey—from unpotting and trimming the roots to watching new leaves grow after one month.
1. Purchased Turtle Shell Alocasia (12 cm Pot)
The plant I bought had thick, textured leaves shaped like a turtle’s shell.
Even at a small size, the leaf structure was already impressive.
2. Removing the Plant & Preparing the Transparent Slit Pot
I removed the Alocasia from the pot and placed it next to the 25 cm transparent slit pot.
Transparent pots help you see:
Slit pots also provide extra airflow, which Alocasia roots love.
3. Light Root Trimming
The bottom of the root ball was densely packed.
I lightly trimmed the compacted portion so that:
- New white roots can grow
- The plant can breathe better
- Growth can restart faster
Healthy conditions (light, warmth, humidity) quickly produced fresh new roots.
4. Adjusting the Plant Height in the New Pot
Before filling the pot with soil, I positioned the plant to the correct height:
- Crown above soil line
- Root ball centered
- Stable base
Proper planting depth prevents rot and ensures upright growth.
5. Planting Into the New Pot
I used a well-draining mix:
- Potting soil as the base
- Added drainage material (light, airy)
- Enough oxygen flow around roots
This gives Alocasia ideal moisture without staying soggy.
6. Watering Thoroughly After Repotting
After planting, I watered the soil thoroughly until water drained from the bottom.
Watering tip:
- Water only when the top layer dries
- Transparent pots help you visually check the moisture level
- Alocasia likes moisture but cannot sit in wet soil
7. Repotting Complete
The plant settled well in its new pot.
A bigger pot may look oversized at first, but Alocasia grows into it quickly.
8. One Month Later: Significant New Growth
After one month of proper light and watering, the Turtle Shell Alocasia produced multiple new leaves.
- Larger
- Thicker
- Stronger texture
- Deep turtle-shell pattern
The growth difference was dramatic.
9. Close-Up of the Leaves
The rugged, textured surface shows why this plant is called Turtle Shell Alocasia.
Each groove and ridge becomes more defined as the plant matures.
10. Largest Leaf — Full Front View
Here is the largest leaf photographed from the front.
With enough light and humidity, this Alocasia can grow surprisingly large—possibly even reaching umbrella-sized leaves in ideal conditions.
Conclusion
Repotting a small Turtle Shell Alocasia into a spacious transparent slit pot greatly improves root health and overall growth.
With a little root trimming, proper soil, and balanced watering, the plant responds with bigger and more dramatic foliage.
This is an excellent plant for anyone who loves textured, sculptural indoor plants.
