Question
Hi Will,

Why is it that indoor flowering plants need to be rootbound to bloom whereas in nature they are don't?

Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa,

That is a good question and one that I am not sure I have a precise scientific answer for. Without knowing exactly why, researchers have often observed empirically that potted plants grow better and faster and flower more profusely when they are moderately potbound. At least part of the explanation is that the plant puts more energy into leaf and flower development once it has maxed out on root growth.

I have less experience with plants in their natural, habitats. In these outdoor environments, plants are subject to a much more variable environment than they are as potted indoor plants. Outdoors, the soil composition, temperature, rainfall, and sunlight can all vary from season to season and week to week. In addition, outdoor plants are often in competition with other plant species and have to deal with a wide variety of predators. All of these factors have the potential for signaling to a plant that it is time to flower so that the species can reproduce and carry on.

Growing plants in containers indoors is an artificial environment and the rules that apply outdoors are often not applicable to indoor potted plants. Indoors and outdoors are very different worlds. And these differences require very different growing techniques. That is why many Master outdoor gardeners are not so masterful with indoor plants and that is why I carefully limit my expertise to indoor potted plants.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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