Plant need CPR (HELP)?

Question

i just saved this plant from the garbage, it seems like it was in a pot that was too small and the root just grew around and aroung itself. i'm planning to repot it,but what do i do with that thick web of roots around the body.

Answer 1

...loosen gently by hand -- if you can.  If it is really root bound, you can make cuts around the root ball.  Use a sharp knife and make 3-4 vertical cuts into the root ball evenly spaced around the circumference.  I usually cut from the bottom to about 2/3 up.  Large amounts of tightly circling roots right on the bottom can even be removed and discarded if you have good roots higher up.  Pot in a larger pot.  Usually one size bigger is enough, meaning at least an inch to two inches of fill is needed all around the sides.  Be sure you do not end up with the plant too high or too low in the pot.  Settle it in at about the same depth it was in it's original pot or just lower enough to lightly cover the old root ball.

Answer 2

Just gently loosen it up with your fingers and be sure the pot you use is large enough so the rootball can spread itself out. With some TLC it ought to do fine.