Importance of great root system: traditional vs. air-pruning pots
When people look for signs of a healthy plant, they usually take a look at the leafage, branching structure, and overall appearance of the plant. What goes unnoticed often is the heart of the plant, the root system. At Heritage, we know that great plants start below the soil. This is why we have made a significant investment in switching over from traditional solid containers to air pruning containers. Healthier roots aren't just a benefit for us, but for the landscapers, gardeners, and mothers who love their house plants alike. Air-pruning is the secret to healthy vigorous growth, lasting landscape success, better and faster establishment.
For years, standard solid wall containers have been the industry's go-to. Although they are effective for growing, they also come up with their setbacks. As roots grow, they will eventually hit the side of a traditional container, with nowhere else left to go. The roots are now left trying to escape without an exit, so they'll start circling around the inside wall. Overtime, the roots will become kinked, crossed, and even girdle the trunk after planting. Unfortunately, these defects will stay with the plant long after it leaves the nursery. Diminishing its growth and life span of the plant. The scary part is that you might not know of these root defects until it's too late. Even a healthy-looking tree above ground can have hidden root problems below the surface.
Air Pruning is a simple concept with a huge impact. Instead of keeping the roots trapped inside a solid container, air pruning containers open their walls to let the roots breathe. Exposing the root tips to air through specially designed openings. Instead of root circling around when a root tip reaches the air, it naturally stops growing at that point. The plant then responds by producing multiple new lateral roots behind the pruned tip. Then we are left with a dense, fibrous root system with far more growing points throughout the container. Instead of large circling roots, you end up with thousands of smaller feeder roots that are read to establish quickly after planting.
At Heritage Seedlings, we believe a healthy plant starts with a healthy root system. That's why we've fully transitioned our container program to air pruning containers. It was a significant investment because our customers deserve plants that are built for long-term success. Whether you're a wholesale grower looking for quicker turn times, a landscaper creating lasting luscious landscapes, or a gardener planting the next centerpiece of your yard, you can have confidence knowing your plants were grown with healthier, more fibrous dense root systems that establish faster, and continue growing vigorously for years to come. At the end of the day, while the leaves and branches may be what first catches your eye, it's what's happening below the soil that truly determines a plant's future. That's our commitment at Heritage Seedlings: investing in healthier roots today so you can enjoy stronger, healthier plants tomorrow.
