Correcting Pot-Bound Root Systems

Trees or shrubs that are grown in plastic containers - specifically smooth plastic containers – have a bad habit of producing roots that grow in a circular pattern within those containers. Often referred to as “pot-bound” root systems, they can end up shortening a plant’s life within a few years if not corrected at planting time.

Check out this resource from Gary Johnson, Professor, Urban and Community Forestry Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota and Extension:
“Box Cutting” Containerized Root Systems: A Quick Fix for a Long-term Problem