Wondering if your urban garden is thriving or just surviving? A common issue for container plants is becoming root bound. Here's how to know if your plant's roots are too crowded in your planter boxes.
First, look for visible clues above the soil. Is growth stunted despite proper care? Do you see roots poking out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the box? Does water rush straight through the soil without being absorbed? These are strong indicators.
The most definitive check is a gentle physical inspection. Carefully tilt the planter and slide the plant out, supporting the base of the stem. If the root mass holds the shape of the pot tightly in a dense, circular web, with little soil visible, the plant is root bound. You might also see roots growing in a tight spiral.
For milder cases, roots may just be starting to circle the inside edge of the container. Addressing this early is key. To help a root-bound plant, you can gently tease apart the outer roots, prune any excessively long or coiled ones, and repot it into a container that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. For a quick refresh in the same box, root pruning and replacing some old soil with fresh mix can buy time.
Regularly checking your plants every season or two prevents severe binding. Healthy roots mean a healthier, more vibrant urban garden.