Root Trim

[Shawn]

I know there is some debate out there (not necessarily here) about trimming roots.  some say it can stunt, put into shock or even kill a pant.

I personally have trimmed roots on many of my projects with (thankfully) no ill effects.  I have trimmed peppers plants, herbs and flowers if they get too wild and too massive.


I just trimmed the roots on my basil.  The left side of my harvest was nothing but roots so I gave them a haircut. Plant is still happy and even looks like it is standing a tad taller.



Who else has trimmed roots and what is your experience?

[drbanks]

I have trimmed basil roots in the past with no ill effect.

More recently, I've accidentally "trimmed" roots while transplanting.  And stuff usually survives that, too.

[MaryL]

I've also had no trouble.  I've trimmed herbs, tomatoes and peppers.  

My eggplant, which I've never grown before, now has a huge root ball and, while I've seen worse, I am getting ready to trim a bit.  I will approach it conservatively because I don't know yet if this particular type of plant will be sensitive.

I think I tried it once, but found it did no harm. I am not a root trimmer, but perhaps I should on some of those projects which take over the bowl and pump. Hmm...I will have to give that some thought in the future  . Good question. Good Topic to consider.

[MaryL]

I can say for sure my cucumber plant needed it.  Not that I did try it - I had to terminate the plant before any trim.  But darn, those roots were creepers.  They enjoyed lining and sticking to the sides and roof of the bowl like crab grass.  

[Shawn]

Today I really  need to go in and trim the roots on the Jalapeno plant again.  These are getting out of hand.  I can ot turn the plant because of the trunk in the cage.  S

[MaryL]

I agree that’s something additional to consider - the fact that at some point you can no longer turn your plants/pods because the roots have grown together with an adjacent plant.  I need to pay more consistent attention to that.  Before they intertwine.