How to Help a Rootbound Plant

 

How to Help a Rootbound Plant: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your plant is struggling and growth seems to have stalled, it may be rootbound. This happens when the plant’s roots become cramped inside the pot, running out of space to grow. Here’s how you can help your rootbound plant thrive again!

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Before jumping to any solutions, check if your plant is indeed rootbound. Gently remove it from its pot, and if the roots are tightly wrapped around the soil, or if they look cramped and circling the bottom, your plant is rootbound.

Step 2: Prune the Roots

Once you’ve removed the plant from its pot, carefully examine the roots. If they are tightly coiled, gently loosen them with your fingers. For very dense roots, you may need to trim away some of the most tangled ones with sterilized pruning shears. This encourages new root growth and allows the plant to spread its roots more easily in fresh soil.

Step 3: Choose the Right Pot

It’s time to repot your plant! Pick a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. A pot that’s too large can hold too much moisture, which could lead to root rot, so avoid going too big.

Step 4: Refresh the Soil

Add fresh, well-draining soil to the new pot. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom, which can harm the roots.

Step 5: Repot and Water

Place the plant in the new pot, filling in around the roots with soil. Gently press the soil down to eliminate any air pockets. Water thoroughly but allow the excess water to drain away.

Step 6: Post-Repotting Care

After repotting, your plant may be a little stressed. Keep it in a bright spot but out of direct sunlight for a few days to help it recover. Water it when the soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering.

By giving your rootbound plant a little extra care, you’ll help it regain its health and continue to thrive!