pot-bound

adjective

1. (of a pot plant) having grown to fill all the available root space and therefore lacking room for continued growth

Example Sentences

Even if the plant appears healthy, it’s probably pot-bound, meaning the roots have grown so much within the pot that there’s barely any soil left.

From Washington Post

But most pot-bound plants are easy to save.

From Washington Post

“Some plants, especially houseplants, like to be pot-bound,” Cupp says.

From Washington Post

Roots that are congested — pot-bound — should be scored with a knife and teased apart before planting.

From Seattle Times

“Definitely keep them in bright, indirect light and pot-bound,” Mr. Hachadourian said.

From New York Times