RootMaker, The Original Root Pruning Container System.

RootMaker® and the Whitcomb System®

The Original Root-Pruning System®

Seize every opportunity to continue root branching momentum.

Depending on your production requirements, there are several options. A good rule of thumb is "the 4-inch Rule". Similar to pruning shrubs, research has shown that when a root is pruned, root branching occurs at the tip to about four inches back. This is why RootMaker® propagation containers are 4 inches deep. If plants are shifted to a larger RootMaker® container with a sidewall difference less than 4 inches, excellent branching will occur but this fibrous root system will soon exhaust container volume and may require an additional shift. If plants are shifted to a container that has a sidewall difference greater than 4 inches, some root branching opportunities or sales could be missed.

The 4-Inch Rule

To illustrate the 4-inch Rule, this large rootball of a 3.5 inch diameter lacebark elm which had been growing in an 18" diameter RootBuilder® for 1.5 years, was cut in half with a chain saw. White lines indicate this tree's first year root systems from RootMaker® 4-pack and RootMaker® 3-gallon. Note the complementary effect of each container size with the next to create an extremely fibrous root system.

One, Three and Five

RootMaker®1, 3, and 5 Gallon (Patent#4,753,037) Many nurseries shift to 1, 3, or 5 gallon RootMakers®, generally in May, June, or early July, then allow these seedlings to grow in this container until fall planting in the field or the next shift. All models of our 1 (round or square) 3, and 5-gallon RootMakers® have many openings designed to continue the air-root pruning process.

A Good Mix

For above-ground RootMakers® is ground pine bark, peat, and sand 60/20/20 by volume. To this, add 1.5 pounds of Micromax® micronutrients and 14 pounds of 17-7-12 Osmocote® per cubic yard. The quantity of dolomite required for best growth depends on the minerals dissolved in your irrigation water. Other recommendations are site specific.

RootMaker® Grounder™ 5 Gallon

Our 5-gallon Grounder™ is a unique option because it was designed to be installed in the ground but may be used above ground. This container requires a well-drained soil and can be filled with either soil or a soilless mix.

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