Root-Pruning Container Plants

Container gardening is not just about geraniums in flower pots anymore. People are growing fruit trees, Japanese maples, ornamental grasses, and all kinds of other substantial plants in container.  Some of those containers are too big to move, and sometimes the plants are too large to re-pot.  So what do you do?  Try root pruning.

Start by scraping out a layer of soil around the plant until you expose some surface roots. Then take a shovel or a hand trowel and begin digging out some soil between the roots in the side of the pot. It’s okay to cut some of the roots; in fact, part of the goal is to relieve root down conditions and reinvigorate the plant.  Use pruning shears to clear away roots around the edge of the plant if needed.

Once you’ve cleared some soil from the top and sides of the plant, give it a good root drench with Big Bloom.  Fill in the gaps with Ocean Forest potting soil, our premium blend that’s packed with crab meal, bad guano, and earthworm castings.  Top-dress with Ocean Forest as well so the roots are no longer exposed.  Continue with your regular feeding schedule, and watch your container plants come to life!