When gardeners admire their landscape, they don’t always make the connection between the health of the flowers and foliage above ground and the nurturing of the plant happening below the soil’s surface. However, if gardeners take the time to develop a robust root system, it can result in plants that can withstand weather extremes and pest attacks.
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It’s unusual for a plant that appears healthy at the nursery to have an unhealthy root system, but gardeners should always inspect the root ball if possible before purchasing a new plant. The larger roots help to anchor the plant in the soil, and transport nutrients and moisture to the plant. The fine, hair-like roots have the job of absorbing nutrients and moisture from the soil. If a plant is root bound at the nursery, it will take longer to establish in the garden.
When planting new trees or shrubs in the landscape, it’s important not to over-amend the planting hole with organic materials. If the soil in the planting hole is too rich and loose compared to the surrounding soil, the roots may circle around in the planting hole, creating a root bound effect and stunting the plant’s growth. Instead, add a layer of organic compost around the plant as mulch, where the nutrients will gradually filter down into the soil.
The most essential element for root development in plants is phosphorus, which is the second numeral listed on a package of fertilizer. Bone meal is the best organic source of phosphorus, and gardeners should apply this to the soil if plants exhibit bluish leaves or a stunted root system, two signs of a phosphorus deficiency.
In areas with sandy, porous soil, rock phosphate may be a better choice for an organic source of phosphorus. Rock phosphate isn’t water soluble, so it endures longer in the soil than bone meal does.
Several pests feed exclusively on plant roots in the garden, including root maggots, nematodes, flea beetle larvae, and weevil larvae. Organic gardeners can apply parasitic nematodes to the soil to control many types of garden larvae pests. These nematodes require moisture to allow them to migrate through the soil in search of pests. Gardeners managing a grub problem can apply the spores of milky spore disease to lawns or large garden areas.
Root rot is a general term for fungi and bacteria that infect the root system of plants and lead to wilting or plant death. According to the Ohio State University Extension, the most common cause of root rot is waterlogged soil, so improving drainage prevents rot. Gardeners who battle root rot regularly due to heavy clay conditions should consider installing raised garden beds.
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