Root-bound bedding plant

Question

What is the best way to plant && untangle the roots?

Answer 1

If I understand your comment correctly, you are asking about root-bound plants and how to transplant them. For an annual or perennial, there are 3 main strategies. 1. is to hold the rootball and try to loosen it gently through gentle twisting and prying away the largest roots. If the roots at the bottom seem to be tying up the roots, then trim them off. If that doesn’t do it, make 4 vertical and equal distant slices through the roots. Go 3 cm deep. Make an X through the bottom and then try to gently pry the rootball loose. In most cases, this is enough. The last one involves soaking the rootball in a bucket of water so that the potting mix slides off. A spray with the hose may be necessary. Disentangle the roots and spread them out when planting. It is easier if you make a volcano-shaped soil mound in the center of the planting hole. This last technique can be used with trees and shrubs that are root bound or have encircling roots. Make a sun barrier to cast shadow on the plant for 3-4 days while the plant settles in. Some plants, like peony and Dicentra have very fragile roots. If a piece breaks off, plant it and you may end up with an extra bloomer in a year or two!