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Q.Hi, I Have Grown A Palm Tree In A Large Bin Which Is Root Bound. I Decided To Cut Out The Bottom Of The Bin, Place It In The Garde

Zone Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow, Ireland | Anonymous added on June 30, 2026 | Answered

n and let some roots grow down into the soil. Will the roots that are bound in the bin hold back the growth of the palm. It is approx six feet high. I was thinking of building a circular low wall around this and filling it with top soil and also cutting away the bin. Question is could I cut out the bound roots or would this kill the plant. Photo enclosed. Your help would be greatly appreciated!

A.Answers to this queston: Add Answer
GKH_Susan
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Answered on July 1, 2026

You can cut through some of the roots if they are circling. You don't need to remove them but you can trim them if needed. Disturb the roots as little as possible. Most are likely growing into the ground. That is a good idea to enlarge the growing room for the palm. Here are care tips for palm trees:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/palms-trees/palm-tree-planting-outdoors.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/palms-trees/cutting-back-a-palm-tree.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/palms-trees/winterizing-a-palm-tree.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/palms-trees/sun-loving-container-palms.htm

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP262

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