I just repotted some of mine yesterday (not carnosa). Most had a sparse root system so no problem removing old mix. One had a dense mat of roots but I removed at least 75 - 80% of it. I think it's better to get rid of most of the depleted mix which probably has an accumulation of excessive mineral salts.

That’s kind of what I was aiming for. I removed what would come off easily however the surface soil wasn’t going to budge without destruction on my part. I may break it up with bamboo skewers and try to loosen it up that way.

I watered it prior to the repot so I was surprised that the top was still as firm as it was.

I have to admit that it was an exercise in frustration. I’m glad that I managed to get it done for now. I suspect that I may have to poke around in there by next summer to try and take more of that soil completely out of there.

when i bring a new plant home.. i give it at least a month or 3.. to acclimate to its new home... before i consider ripping it from its pot and stripping it of its media and replacing it all ...

it was stressed from shipping and handling from grower to seller ... to your home .... it needs to de-stress ... before you stress it again ..

of course .. thats all for next time ...

just leave it alone for the next month or two... and work on the plants you already have at home ...

and.. its stressed.. not hungry.. no fert until it settles down ...

try not to love it to death ....

ken