How to Deal With Pot Bound Plants?

Pot bound plants are plants that have outgrown their containers, and the roots have become densely tangled and compacted. It can hinder the growth of plants, making them look unhealthy and stunted. In this article, we will explore various ways of dealing with pot bound plants.

Signs of Pot Bound Plants

Before we dive into how to handle pot bound plants, it's essential to know the signs that indicate a plant is pot bound. The following signs will help you know if your plant needs attention:

Roots that are tightly coiled around the container

The plant has stopped growing despite ideal conditions

The roots are growing out of the drainage holes

The plant requires frequent watering

The soil dries out too quickly even after watering

The plant looks stunted

How to Deal With Pot Bound Plants

Now that you have identified that your plant is pot-bound let's look at some ways to address the issue:

1. Re-potting

The most common way to deal with pot bound plants is to re-pot them. Re-potting is the process of transferring the plant to a larger container that allows it to grow freely. When re-potting, remove the plant from its container gently and remove any dead roots that may be present. Fill the new container with fresh potting soil and place the plant in it. Water the plant thoroughly and let it drain.

2. Pruning

If you cannot re-pot the plant or don't have a larger container, you can prune the roots. Pruning the roots involves removing some of the tangled roots to encourage new growth. Carefully remove the plant from the container and gently separate the tangled roots. Use sterilized scissors to remove the damaged or dead roots. Place the plant back in its container with fresh soil.

3. Hydroponic System

Another option for pot bound plants is to switch to a hydroponic system. Hydroponics is a soil-free method of growing plants that rely on nutrient-rich water. The hydroponic system allows the plant to grow freely without any soil limitations. The roots of the plant will have enough space to grow, and nutrient-rich water will keep the plant healthy.

4. Top Dressing

Top dressing is a method of adding a fresh layer of soil and organic matter over the old soil to encourage new growth. This method doesn't require re-potting or root pruning. It is an ideal method if you cannot re-pot the plant or cannot prune the roots. Top dressing helps to add nutrients to the growing plant and provide fresh soil for the roots to grow.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, pot-bound plants can hamper the growth and health of your plants. However, there are several ways to deal with the problem, and you can choose one that suits you best. Re-potting or pruning the roots can help the plant to grow freely. If you prefer a soil-free method, hydroponics is a viable option. Top dressing is an ideal method if you cannot prune the roots or re-pot the plant.