How to Remove Pot Bound Plant: Step by Step Guide

If you are an avid gardener, you must have come across pot-bound plants at some point in time. Pot bounds are plants that have outgrown their containers and are now struggling to survive in them. The roots of these plants have grown too long and too thick that they have no space to spread out and absorb nutrients effectively. Removing pot-bound plants is an essential process that ensures your plants grow healthily and thrive. Here is a step by step guide on how to remove pot-bound plants.

Step 1: Pick the Right Time

The first step in removing pot-bound plants is picking the right time to do it. The ideal time to remove pot-bound plants is when they are actively growing - during the spring and early summer months. During this time, the plant has a higher chance of survival since it will have enough energy to recover after the transplanting process. Avoid removing pot-bound plants during the winter months as they are usually dormant and might not recover from the transplanting process.

Step 2: Select a Suitable Pot

After picking the right time, you need to choose a suitable pot to transplant your plant. The pot should be one size bigger than the current pot, ensuring it has enough space to grow and develop healthy roots. Also, ensure that the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to facilitate water drainage and prevent root rot.

Step 3: Prepare The Pot and Soil

Before you transfer the plant to the new pot, ensure that it has enough soil. Add potting soil to the new pot up to a quarter of its height. Also, remember to water the soil before transplanting the plant. The moisture helps the plant to settle in quickly and reduces transplant shock.

Step 4: Remove The Plant From the Existing Pot

To remove the plant from the existing pot, turn the pot upside down and gently tap the bottom of the pot. This loosens the potting soil and makes it easier to get the plant out. If the plant is tightly packed in the pot, use a sharp knife to cut through it gently. Be careful when cutting to avoid damaging the roots.

Step 5: Loosen The Roots

After removing the plant, loosen the roots gently with your fingers or use a small hoe. This ensures the roots can absorb water and nutrients from the soil in the new pot effectively. If the roots are tightly bound and cannot be loosened, use a sharp knife to make some cuts on the bottom and sides to encourage new growth.

Step 6: Repot the Plant

After loosening the roots, place the plant in the new pot and fill in with potting soil. Ensure that you leave enough space between the top of the soil and the lip of the pot to allow for watering. Press the soil gently to eliminate air pockets and water the plant adequately. You can add organic fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for the plant's growth.

Step 7: Proper Care and Maintenance

After repotting, provide proper care and maintenance for your plant. Keep the plant away from direct sunlight for a few days after transplanting to prevent stress. Water the plant adequately but avoid overwatering. You can also add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool, promoting healthy growth.

In conclusion, removing pot-bound plants is a crucial process that every gardener should know. It ensures that your plants grow and develop healthy roots, resulting in healthy growth and thriving. Follow the steps above to rehouse your pot-bound plants and give them a new lease of life.