Tomatoes in Root Maker Containers

In this video I compare two oroma tomatoes grown in a traditional pot and in a root maker pot. I wanted to like these containers but they don't work very well with the way I like to grow tomatoes. They need watering daily and can't be watered from the bottom. Plus they are very difficult to remove from the container and can't be kept in these containers for too long. The roots do look pretty good though and don't coil around the bottom like a normal pot so the roots don't need to be separated when transplanting.

[brandywinetreesllc]

Nice video, but not an accurate comparison. There is a very good reason why we grow all of our 10, 000+ trees in Rootmaker pots and bags. They develop amazing root systems and grow fast. Yes, you would have to slightly modify your daily watering timing and method, but that tomato plant has some really gorgeous roots!!

It would have been nice to see your comparison plant's roots at the same age. Plants in traditional pots usually have far fewer roots, and circling roots can easily develop.

You mentioned the 2" height difference and the mix drying out quickly. It is quite possible that the Rootmaker plant was not getting enough water regularly which actually slowed down its growth. So, I think your control plant in the traditional pot probably had ample moisture, whereas the Rootmaker plant may have experienced frequent drying.

We have learned from growing seedlings/ trees that proper watering is so critical when using this growing method with a well-drained mix, but the cost and rewards are well worth it. Consider using a simple drip-irrigation system on a timer. Watering 'top down' is better and more effective than watering 'bottom up'.

Ultimately, once you transplant that Rootmaker plant you will see significant growth and development, and my bet is that it will quickly surpass that other plant possessing fewer roots. Those 4" Rootmaker 'Propagation pots' are primarily meant to develop a plant's early root system. Once upstaged into a larger pot or in ground, anyone would be very impressed and pleased with how well they grow!

Your video was informative, but it would be great to redo your test with better controls in place. It would be a fairer comparison using 'like' watering methods, growing mix, etc. with the type of pots being the only variance.

If you placed both your control plants and the test plants on a drip irrigation system, you might discover better growing results for both groups, and maybe the growth results would be far different. Thanks for posting your comparison, and video!

[LetsgetloudUK]

The roots look incredibly stable for further potting. I bet the smaller one outgrows the larger plant and gives a better crop. A strong root equals stronger plant!

[ryananthony]

Wow when you showed the roots it says it all.

[MidwestGardener]

Thanks a bunch for sharing the results of your experiment! Very useful information! I hadn't heard of these before, but I will sure keep these results in mind.

[tdapple]

Thank you for sharing. I was thinking about buying and trying the root makers. You saved me some $. Thank you

[robbz]

Interesting look pot, hadn't seen one of those before. Thanks.

[TheFragrantBunch]

I like the Pop-Out Pots from Gardener's Supply Company. They're perfect for deep rooted vegetable plants like tomatoes!

[xaviercruz]

Where is the comparisson with the other container. How were the results in the other?

[RandomVids]

I use a 1020 tray without holes to bottom water. Its a pain here in Texas since its so hot but worth it since the roots wont go past the top 2 inches if i keep the soil wet. My plants grown in rootmakers, air pots, or smart pots do way better than normal pots, but the difference isn't noticeable until they get established in the ground. You may want to do a comparison of both plants after a month or so. Biggest thing I don't like about these is the price. Root branching/pruning adds a lot to yield, I wouldn't pass up on these type of planters just yet.

[OSGCourtWatch]

Have you ever tried net cups for air pruning?

[ryananthony]

Hi just subbed! Very interesting video 👍

[martysgarden]

Hi it's Marty from Martys Garden in Australia. Nice to see you like to experiment around the garden.
I think good call on those containers, , , definately better ways to start Tomatoes at home.
Anyway's thought I would drop over and lend my support, , , subbed
Looking forward to picking up a few tips and watch your garden grow!
Warm Regards
Marty

[DontSleepOnTech]

You’re supposed to transplant those into root maker pots. Those are just to start.

[fernandatrapp]

Hello! Do you have any thoughts on why the plant in this different container is smaller?

[a.grayman]

Thanks for that video. I watched an extremely long winded presentation on those by the inventor. The idea is the greater root mass pays dividends later on as the plant matures. I too like to bottom water and since I do pay attention to my conventional pots, getting root bound is usually not an issue. The concern that I have always heard is removing the plants is both difficult and destructive as shown. Once again, Thanks!

[doublereno]

Would have been better if you showed the roots from the one in the conventional pot