Does trimming roots help during repotting?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.When repotting a plant, it is essential to assess precisely how much of the root system to trim to strike a balance between risk and benefit. While trimming dead roots is beneficial, excessive trimming can be detrimental to the already compromised root system. I once saved an overwatered monstera by judiciously removing only the rotten roots with a sterilized tool. You support a healthier plant by learning how and when to trim your plant.
Appropriate Trimming
- Only remove dead or rotting roots with clean tools
- Preserve healthy white roots for nutrient absorption
- Cut cleanly at 45-degree angles to promote healing
Pruning Limits
- Never remove over 25% of healthy root mass
- Severe pruning shocks plants and delays recovery
- Limit trimming to visibly congested root sections
Risk Avoidance
- Avoid pruning stressed or diseased plants
- Recovering plants lack energy for root regeneration
- Wait until plants show vigorous growth signs first
Tool Sterilization
- Disinfect tools with 70% isopropyl alcohol before use
- Prevents pathogen transfer through open cuts
- Wipe blades between plants to avoid cross-contamination
Proper technique promotes feeder root development without stress to the plant. Using clean scissors, make sharp cuts well above any damaged areas. I oriented the cut at an angle so that growth would head away from the root crown. You create bushier root systems to take in more nutrients. This also reduces tearing, which introduces disease.
It's important to understand when to take advantage of trimming roots. If a plant is very root-bound and showing circling roots, it's time to intervene. I saved my peace lily while gently pruning roots in early spring. You can remedy bound roots and maintain the plant's energy stores. Avoid cutting roots during flowering or during extreme temperatures.
Look out for plants following root cutting as they successfully recover. A minor simple growth pause will likely happen for 7-10 days before signs of new root growth. I look for white root tips as they indicate the beginning of positive root recovery in plants. You can confirm recovery with renewed top growth. Proper aftercare involves keeping the soil moist and refraining from fertilization for 4 weeks.
Read the full article: How to Repot Plants: 10 Essential Steps
