Introduction

If you are a gardener, you may have experienced having pot bound plants. Pot bound plants occur when the roots of a plant outgrow its container, causing the roots to become tangled and compacted. In this article, we will discuss what pot bound plants are, how to identify them, and what to do with them.

What are Pot Bound Plants?

Pot bound plants are those that have outgrown their container, causing the roots to form a tangled mass. This happens because the roots continue to grow and spiral around the pot, eventually leading to a lack of space for the root system to expand. As a result, pot bound plants may not receive enough nutrients, water, or air circulation to thrive.

How to Identify Pot Bound Plants?

It is easy to identify pot bound plants. If you notice that your plant's roots are growing out of the bottom of the pot, it is a clear sign that your plant is pot bound. Another way to confirm this is by gently lifting the plant out of the container. If you notice roots that have formed a tight mass or if the soil is completely filled with roots, then your plant is pot bound.

What to do with Pot Bound Plants?

Now that you have identified your pot bound plant, it's time to take action. The good news is that there are several effective ways to remedy root-bound plants. Here are some tips to help you deal with them.

Repotting

The most straightforward way to deal with pot bound plants is to repot them. Repotting will allow the roots to spread out, and give the plant more space to grow. To do this, start by selecting a container that is one or two inches larger than the current one. Make sure the new container has proper drainage holes. Remove the plant from its current container, and gently loosen the roots. If the roots are tightly bound, you may need to cut away some of the tangled roots. After loosening the roots, place the plant in the new container, and fill it with fresh soil. Water the plant to help settle the soil and prevent air pockets from forming.

Air Pruning

Air pruning is an alternative to repotting that can help prevent pot bound plants from happening again. During air pruning, roots are encouraged to grow through the air until they reach the edge of the container. Once they reach the edge, the roots are pruned, encouraging new growth to occur. This method encourages a fibrous root system that will prevent circling around the pot. You can use air pruning with fabric pots or containers made of specialized materials, such as air pots or root pouches.

Root Pruning

Root pruning involves cutting the plant's root system to loosen tangled roots or to restrict the growth of the roots. This method is not recommended for all plants and requires some research before attempting. Root pruning may encourage new growth and improve the appearance of the plant, but may also cause stress to the plant, so use with caution.

Conclusion

Pot bound plants can be detrimental to plant health, but there are several effective ways to remedy them. Repotting, air pruning, and root pruning are just a few ways to deal with pot bound plants. Ultimately, prevention is key to avoiding pot bound plants, so make sure to choose the right-size container and provide proper care for your plants. With these tips, your plants will continue to flourish and thrive for years to come.