Take the plant outdoors to diminish the mess. Wet the soil of the plant. This will loosen the soil and make it easier to remove.
Hold the pot with one hand and brace it by the roots with the other. Tilt the pot slightly and tap on the base of the pot. Slide the plant out gently from the pot.
Massage the roots of the plants gently with your hand. This will loosen the roots and make them more conducive for growing.
Fill the pot one-third full with fresh potting soil. Place the plant in the pot and cover the remainder of the roots with soil. Leave approximately 1 inch of space at the top of the pot.
Water the plant gently until the soil is saturated. Allow the plant to drain 30 minutes to 1 hour before bringing the plant indoors. Position the plant in the sun if you intend to leave it outside.