Roots of a pot-bound Buddleja plant
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Roots of a pot-bound Buddleja plant
A tangle of roots of a pot-grown plant of Buddleja globosa, the Orange Ball Tree; a native of Chile and Argentina. The plant is pot-bound; prolonged culture in a flower-pot has resulted in the roots filling the container. As the roots reach the edges of the pot, they continue to grow, eventually showing no geotropism due to the restricted space. Instead they from a tangled mass encircling the soil within the pot. In good horticultural practice, this condition should be forestalled by repotting or planting out. A pot bound plant put into open ground will often fail to produce an extensive and deep root system, resulting in poor growth of the plant and possible death due to failure to access sufficient water and nutrients. This picture shows the predominantly horizontal orientation of the roots at the bottom of the pot. The normal habit of young roots of this type is to grow downwards
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6362103
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate and tangled roots of a pot-bound Buddleja plant, also known as the Orange Ball Tree. Originating from Chile and Argentina, this native plant has been confined to a flower-pot for an extended period, resulting in its roots completely filling the container. As the roots reach the edges of the pot, they continue to grow without any geotropism due to limited space. In horticultural practice, it is essential to prevent such conditions by repotting or planting out. When a pot-bound plant is transferred into open ground, it often fails to develop an extensive and deep root system. This can lead to stunted growth and even death as the plant struggles to access sufficient water and nutrients. The photograph highlights how the predominantly horizontal orientation of these roots at the bottom of the pot deviates from their natural habit of growing downwards. It serves as a reminder that proper care should be taken when cultivating plants in containers, ensuring they have enough room for their roots to spread freely. This image offers valuable insights into root behavior and emphasizes why understanding concepts like geotropism are crucial in horticulture. The beauty lies not only in capturing nature's complexity but also in promoting responsible gardening practices for optimal plant health and vitality.
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