Root pruning how-to

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Root pruning how-to

Trees, shrubs and tropical plants grown in decorative containers year-round need regular root pruning. This will encourage lots of feeder roots for absorbing water in pots with limited moisture. It also helps limit size, so plants can stay in containers longer.

The hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) above is ready to be transplanted into a decorative container. Choose a pot no more than 2 in. larger than the plant is growing in already — too much soil around the transplanted root ball can remain wet, causing rot.

Click ahead to follow the steps for root pruning as this plant is prepared for its permanent spot.

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To easily remove the root ball from its container, slip a soil knife along the inside of the pot to loosen the plant. Tip the container on its side and slide the root ball out, as shown here. Sterilize a sharp knife with rubbing alcohol, let it dry, then

To easily remove the root ball from its container, slip a soil knife along the inside of the pot to loosen the plant. Tip the container on its side and slide the root ball out, as shown here.

Sterilize a sharp knife with rubbing alcohol, let it dry, then cut off any large circling roots 2 in. away from the trunk, as you see in the inset photo.

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Using the sterilized knife, slice off the bottom 2 in. of root ball (or less, if the plant is in smaller than an 8-in. pot), like you see here. Tease out the remaining roots with your fingers to loosen thick tangles. Then shear off 1 in. of these feeder

Using the sterilized knife, slice off the bottom 2 in. of root ball (or less, if the plant is in smaller than an 8-in. pot), like you see here.

Tease out the remaining roots with your fingers to loosen thick tangles. Then shear off 1 in. of these feeder roots all around the circumference of the root ball.