How do I transplant small plants like little citrus plants safely without killing them?

Question

I have several citrus plants that are sharing pots with main plants. I don't know how to go about taking them out without killing the plants. I also have a two logan plants as well and they seemed to be entwined by the root to a massangeana cane.

Answer 1

I always tell my customers that the easiest way to separate plants without causing fatal damage to the roots, is to try to rinse some of the soil off the roots.  Run the rootball under a gentle stream of water and carefully loosen the roots with your fingers.

Have each of the pots prepared with a little mound of soil in the bottom of each pot .  When you repot them, gently spread the roots over the top of the mound.  Then hold the plant in place as you fill with soil around it.  Once you've finished, always give it a good drink.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Your best bet is to water them a lot for about a week so they are all fill with water. When you pull them apart the water will help to loosen up the soil and the roots. Pull them apart gently by the stems.  Be sure you have pre-prepared the pots you are transplanted them to because you want to get the roots covered as soon as possible.Meaning you want at least 2/3 of the soil in them before you do the transplant. if working indoors put down a drop cloth or some newspaper to deal with the mess that will occur with soil scattered around from the roots.  If you have to cut a couple of roots with a razor knife don't worry. There should be plenty of roots to not harm them. Be sure to water thoroughly for the first week or two.