Definition: Teasing or tickling the roots of a plant refers to loosening pot bound roots. Very often when you purchase a plant in some type of pot or container, it has been there for a good amount of time. The roots of the plant have grown considerably and may have completely filled the pot. When that happens, the roots start to circle around themselves, looking for somewhere to escape.
If you place the plant into the ground or into another pot without first loosening the balled up roots, they will continue to grow in a circle, rather than reaching out into the soil, developing and anchoring the plant. So although it may seem like a harsh thing to do to your plants, you are actually helping them by roughing up the root ball.
In most cases, you can loosen the roots with your fingers. In extreme cases of pot bound roots, you may need to slice through the root ball with a sharp knife or pruners. Do this in several spots around the root ball, to encourage root growth in all directions.
Also Known As: Tickling the Roots. Loosening the Root Ball.
Examples:
Never loosen or tease a plant's roots until you are ready to replant it.
