Many of us have houseplants and potted plants that we keep indoors or out, but when's the last time you looked at the roots of your potted plants? The last time you re-potted them? Can't remember when? Well, if your plants are looking tired, small, wilted, inspect their root system.

Taking your plants out of their pots from time to time won't hurt them. Simply turn the pots upside down and gently lift the plants out. If the roots look white, and healthy, you're all right. But if they look brown, soft, or discolored, or in worst case scenarios, smell bad, then it's time to do something about it.

While you have the plant out of its pot, cut away any diseased or discolored roots and repot in a slightly larger pot than it was in before, (about 1/3rd bigger), and re-plant using fresh potting soil. In just a few weeks, you are going to notice your plants looking much healthier, and robust.