LandscapExperts Tip of the Week, November 12

Executing a Landscape Renovation

Trees and Shrubs in Fiber Pots

Fiber pots are supposed to allow plant roots to grow through the sides and biodegrade. However, Crabapple LandscapExperts know that if any margin of the pot protrudes above ground, it can serve to “wick” moisture out of the surrounding soil, leaving the fiber pot dry and inpenetrable, thereby drying the root ball further.

Fiber pots (often made of peat or coir) are best removed if the roots have not begun to grow through the walls. If roots are growing into the fibrous pot, we use our best judgment whether to strip off the side walls or to remove the top part of the pot down to the soil ball.