Getting to "Healthy Roots"— It's All About How You Start
Root Development is 100% of a Strong Start.
Good Beginnings Make Good Endings
There is simply no substituting for a healthy root system—particularly for young trees. The way a plant is potted, and the length of time in the pot, predict the future of that plant.
The Health Below Controls the Beauty Up Top
For decades, smooth-sided containers have been the standard for growing young nursery stock, but the inherent problems appear soon after potting, yet few have chosen to address the issues.
At issue is the fact that if a young tree is allowed to grow and develop within the smooth-sided container to the point where the roots reach the sides, real growth stops, and harm begins. This ultimately leads to girdling roots.
The Choking Effect of Girdling Roots
Girdling roots cause poor water and nutrient uptake and weak development. When roots are forced to grow inward, their ability to reach outward once planted is seriously restricted. And cutting the roots before planting to break up the roots only serves to kill the roots that are cut.
Giving Trees a Fighting Chance
Eliminating girdling roots and their attending health issues is not rocket science. Allowing roots to continue pointing "outward" before planting sets up quicker root establishment once in the ground.
ArborVantage uses containers that prevent roots from circling, encouraging root tips to propagate and optimize water and nutrient intake. We have found RootMaker containers to be one of the best sources for root enablers and while more expensive than smooth side containers, give trees a considerable head start once planted.
Side Benefits
Not only do ArborVantage trees develop stronger root systems during young development, but they are easier to plant, demand considerably less labor and establish more quickly.
