Roots

REMEMBER THE ROOT SYSTEMS

When we purchase a plant in a garden center we try to choose the healthiest leaves we can find and ponder its potential without considering its most essential component, the root system.

As it begins its life cycle the first part of the plant to sprout is the root
to soak up nutrients and give the plant stability.  

  

When a seed germinates and begins its life journey, the first part to sprout is a tiny root.  

Unlike in nature where the roots have plenty of space to spread out, plants in containers have little area for the roots to grow.

This forces the roots to become entwined together.  

This problem is known as 'root-bound'. The root-ball will not be able to grow outward in search of water and nutrients and will slowly choke itself. 

BREAK THE ROOT BALL

Plants grown in pots quickly become root bound which hampers their
ability to transfer moister and nutrients up the the leaves.

The solution to this problem is simple, break open the root ball. This technique can be intimidating to people who don't want to harm the plants they just purchased.  You will do far more damage by leaving the roots as they are.

Many trees and shrubs become so entangled that a knife is needed to
break it open. Planting a root ball like this will doom the plant to an early death.

The bound roots will stunt the growth of vegetables and flowers. Less water means lower productivity or simply put smaller tomatoes. Trees, shrubs and bushes will eventually show damage of dying twigs and branches. 

Annual vegetables and flowers easily become root bound in the small space available.
If you don't open the root system it will greatly reduce the plants vitality and production. 

Breaking the root ball can be done quickly, especially in smaller plants such as annuals, vegetables or flowers grown in cell packs.  When you lift the plant out of the pack pull the lower roots apart with your fingers, actually breaking them so they will spread out when they are planted.

This kale is a perfect example of a root bound vegetable. Simply
use your fingers to open the bottom of the roots before planting. 

This general idea is the same for larger potted shrubs and trees.  Larger root systems might need to be hit with a shovel or cut with a knife to get the thick roots to break apart.

The day before planting water plants well. Soaking will prepare them for the process about to take place.

         

Before planting, research and follow all special instructions for your plants. Follow recommendations including correct depth for that species. Some shrubs need to be dug deeper while others need to be a few inches above the soil line. This will ensure that your new plant will settle in for years of healthy growth.

           

Proper mulching helps preserve moisture, maintains ground temperature,
suppresses weeds and keeps lawn mowers from damaging the tree trunk.
Lawn mower damage is a major factor in the decline of Dogwoods and other trees.

After you have planted, water the plant well. This process is called 'mudding in'. It is difficult for newly planted shrubs to get water and nutrients from the root system in the ground up to the plant leaves and branches.

         

When plants show problems we call it 'transplant shock'.  The first year of growth takes place underground. Don't worry if you notice slow growth or smaller plants. They will show great improvement the next year.

'Volcano mulching' does more harm to the tree then good. Most importantly it blocks oxygen from the
roots which will suffocate the tree and most likely kill it in a few years,*    

  

Water well the first year and avoid drying out. At least one inch of water every week for most plants. Perhaps a little more for new transplants during dry spells.

Happy Gardening,  

James