A healthy root system is the key to a healthy plant – without robust root development a plant cannot thrive. A healthy root system will hold a plant in place, and carry water and nutrients to the rest of the plant. Healthy roots should be white or tan in colour, succulent and numerous. When the pot is removed, the roots should hold the shape of the soil which indicates the plant is mature enough for transplant. If the roots are over developed and circling densely inside the pot, then the plant is described as root bound.
Air Pruning
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Air pruning of plant roots happens naturally when roots are exposed to air. The individual root tip dries out and stops growing. The plant responds to this by producing even more fibrous lateral roots. The end result is a healthy plant with a dense fibrous root system, ready to take nutrients and water to your plant.
What Are Air Pruning Pots? #
Air pruning pots are containers designed with strategically placed holes, slits and ridges on their sides and bottoms. These openings allow air to reach the root tips, naturally stopping their growth at the edge and encouraging the development of secondary roots. There are a number of advantages to using air pruning pots.
Prevent Root Circling
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- Unlike traditional pots that often cause roots to circle and become root-bound, air-pruning pots ensure roots grow in a healthy, outward pattern.
Promote a Dense, Fibrous Root System #
- The halting of primary roots at the pot's edge triggers the growth of a dense network of secondary roots. This robust root system is more efficient in absorbing nutrients and water.
Improve Plant Health and Growth #
- With a stronger root system, plants in air-pruning pots exhibit better overall health and growth, making them thrive.
Reduce Transplant Shock #
- Plants grown in air-pruning pots adapt more easily to new surroundings, reducing the risk of transplant shock when planted out.
The Tubestock Advantage #
At Trillion Trees Australia, we grow the majority of our plants as tubestock in specially designed air pruning pots. Here’s why:
Enhanced Root Structure #
- Air pruning encourages a strong root foundation, crucial for the survival and growth of young plants when transplanted.
Space Efficiency #
- Plants can remain as tubestock for longer without the risk of becoming root-bound, optimizing space in nurseries.
Faster Establishment #
- Transplanted tubestock with well-developed roots from air pruning pots establish quickly and grow vigorously in their new homes. Important for restoration plantings, landcare, landscaping and home gardening.
Reduced Maintenance #
- Healthier root systems mean less maintenance and a lower likelihood of diseases and pests, ensuring your plants thrive.
Air pruning encourages stronger roots for bigger plants while using less soil and water than normal. Air pruning helps to ensure our plants grow strong and healthy from the ground up.
The Trillion Trees Australia team is happy to share advice and guidance on how to grow healthy native plants. A wide range of tubestock native plants are available to purchase from the Trillion Trees Australia retail nursery. Please visit us at Lot 2 Stirling Crescent, Hazelmere. We are open Monday to Friday 9am - 2pm.