What Does “Rootbound” Mean?

Container Growing

A plant is rootbound when its roots have run out of space in the container. With nowhere left to grow, they begin circling tightly around the inside of the pot. Over time, this creates a dense mass of roots with very little soil left to hold water and nutrients. This can eventually strangle the plant, restricting water and nutrient uptake.

Recognizing Rootbound Growth

Signs of a Rootbound Plant

 
✓ Roots are growing out of drainage holes or pushing the plant upward
✓ Water runs through the pot without soaking in
✓ Slowed growth or yellowing leaves

How to Fix a Rootbound Plant

 
1
Remove from the pot – Gently slide the plant out, tapping or squeezing the pot to loosen it if necessary.
2
Loosen the root ball – tease apart with fingers; if roots are extremely tight, make 3 or 4 vertical cuts along the sides of the root mass to encourage new outward growth
3
Repot with fresh potting mix – Choose a pot one size larger (not too large, excess soil can stay wet and cause root rot) and place the plant so the root flare sits at the soil surface.
4
Water in thoroughly

For more information, please see links below:

 
→  Indoor Plants: Transplanting & Repotting – Clemson Cooperative Extension
→  Repotting Houseplants – Penn State Extension
→  University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension
What Does “Rootbound” Mean?

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