Symptoms

• If you gently extract a root-bound tree from its pot, you will observe that the roots spiral around the inside of the container. In some instances, you can observe the spiraling roots even at the soil's surface, without removing the tree from the pot. If left alone, the circling roots will girdle the tree, cutting into other roots and depriving the tree of water and nutrients. Root-bound trees left in the container will show stunted growth, small leaves, yellowing foliage and leaf drop, especially on the lower leaves of the tree.
  
  

Transplanting Root-Bound Trees

• When transplanting a root-bound potted tree into your yard or garden, you will need to alleviate the root spiraling before placing the tree in the soil to prevent girdling from killing the tree. If the spiraling roots are small, simply loosen them with a knife and spread them. If the spiraling roots are thicker, you should make several cuts from the top to the bottom of the root-ball, deep enough to cut through the circling roots. Cut an X on the bottom of the root-ball to further loosen bound roots. Loosen the roots and spread them around the planting hole.
  
  

Caring for Potted Trees

• If you intend to leave the tree in its container, you have two options once the tree shows signs of becoming root bound. You can transplant the tree into a larger pot, cutting through and loosening the bound roots as you do so. You can also remove to one-third of the tree's root system, pruning them back to a size where they can fit in the current container. This will also help to keep the tree small and suitable for indoor environments.
  
  When selecting potted trees, learn the tree's final size and the size pot you will need. Consider whether you're willing to undertake the maintenance necessary to keep the tree small or keep the root system healthy.
  
  

Selecting Potted Trees

• Whether you intend to leave the tree in a pot or transplant it to your yard or garden, purchasing a potted tree should involve inspecting the roots to avoid root-bound trees whenever possible. Lift the tree from its container to inspect the root system. Avoid root-bound trees, especially if the spiraling roots are the diameter of a pencil or thicker. Small spiraling roots are easier to manage.
  
  

Prevention

• After you purchase a new potted tree for transplanting, plant it as soon as possible to avoid root problems. If you need to leave the tree in the pot for an extended period of time, consider purchasing a special pot designed to discourage roots from spiraling.