Salvaging Rootbound Plants: Three Effective Methods

Before planting, coiled roots must be loosened so they grow into surrounding soil.

1. Hand-teasing: Gently tease roots apart with your hands, then cut off extra-long roots with clippers.
2. Water jet: Spray soil away from the root ball with a strong jet of water, then loosen and uncoil roots.
3. Vertical slits: Make several vertical cuts in the root ball with a knife to stimulate new root growth (more drastic).