RootMaker, The Original Root Pruning Container System.

RootMaker® and the Whitcomb System®

The Original Root-Pruning System®

Large Containers

By now the system has been in effect for at least 2 growing seasons and we are dealing with a tree/shrub of considerable size and a well-branched root system. One option is to plant and harvest in the field conventionally. Another option is the RootTrapper® which comes in sizes up to 60 gallons for continued benefits of root-tip-trapping for another season.

The RootBuilder®II Container

The RootBuilder®II expandable plastic container is another option. This highly successful, versatile container now has been redesigned and is patent pending. It comes in a continuous roll and can be cut to create the size of container you require. (Or pre-cut for sizes 15 to 70 gallon.) With a few inches of overlap, the container is assembled by connecting with cable ties, which do not block openings for air pruning.

Allows Roots To Penetrate

The bottom of the RootBuilder®II can be our RootBuilder® base material which allows roots to penetrate into the soil, pre-cut RootTrapper® discs, or other material that is impervious to roots such as 6 mil. poly., or a spun-bonded weedbarrier type fabric which aids movement of the container.

Best Chance For Survival

A hole is at the tip of each outwardly projecting funnel on the sidewall of this container. For instance, a 30-inch diameter, 18-inch sidewall RootBuilder®II container is 45 gallons and contains 1600 funnel openings. However, the sum of these openings is only 6% of the container sidewall so water loss is minimal. As a result of the sidewall configuration, a portion of sidewall is shaded, reducing temperature and evaporation. Roots are directed outward to these holes and forced to branch yet again by air-root-pruning, thus completing the Whitcomb System®. If needed, the cable ties can be cut, then an additional RootBuilder®II piece can be added to create a larger container. Ultimately, this is a superior tree with a superior root system, given the best chance for survival in any landscape situation.