How does a plant look when it gets pot bound?

Plants are known to grow rapidly and require a lot of space to flourish. However, over time, many indoor plants may outgrow their containers and become "pot-bound." A pot-bound plant is one whose roots have grown beyond the pot's confines, becoming compacted and entangled in the process. As a result, a pot-bound plant may exhibit several physical traits that indicate it's time to repot or find a larger container for its growth.

Roots emerging from the drainage holes

One of the most noticeable signs of a pot-bound plant is roots emerging from the drainage holes in the pot's bottom. As the plant's roots grow extra-long in search of water and nutrients, they may end up poking out of the drainage holes. It can cause the plant to become unstable, and the roots can even block the drainage holes, preventing water from flowing through. Eventually, this can cause waterlogging and root rot and may lead to the plant's death.

Crowded roots circling around the pot

Another visual cue that your plant may be pot-bound is the presence of cramped, circular roots that, instead of spreading out and growing to their full capacity, wrap around themselves, hoping to stabilize the plant but, in essence, suffocate it. These roots can become so entangled that, when you try to transplant a pot-bound plant, they may hold the soil together in a solid, root-filled mass.

The plant appears stunted or stops growing

A pot-bound plant may also stop growing, or its growth may slow down. If you notice that your plant's leaves are smaller than usual or that the plant itself looks stunted, it may be due to cramped roots unable to take up the water and nutrients it needs to grow properly. This can lead to various other issues such as yellow leaves, wilting, and an overall lack of vigor.

The potting mixture dries too quickly

Pot-bound plants often have a hard time absorbing moisture from the soil, leaving the growing medium dry between watering. You may notice that your pot-bound plant needs to be watered more often than usual, and the soil dries out quickly after watering. The roots have grown so tightly together that they prevent the water from penetrating deep into the soil, and the plant becomes an amped-up version of a desert plant.

The plant starts to lean outside the pot

A pot-bound plant may also become unstable and start to lean to one side. This uneven growth can occur if the roots grow denser on one side of the pot than the other. Furthermore, if the plant's roots are struggling to get the water and nutrients they need, the leaves and stems may not get enough support, causing them to flop or lean precariously, giving the appearance of a plant in peril.

Conclusion

It's crucial to keep an eye out for the signs of a pot-bound plant to ensure that the plant is healthy and growing correctly. If you think your plant is pot-bound, it's important to take swift action and either repot it into a larger container or remove some of the tangled roots before transplanting. With proper care, your pot-bound plant can still thrive and continue to beautify your indoor space.