In the world of gardening, there’s a quiet but profound truth that often goes unnoticed amidst the allure of lush foliage and mature plants in oversized pots. It’s the relationship between a plant’s roots and its shoots, and why, when it comes to creating a thriving garden, bigger isn’t always better.
As someone who has spent decades immersed in the nuances of horticulture, I’ve learned that the root: shoot ratio—a plant’s balance between its underground root system and aboveground growth—plays a pivotal role in its health and performance. Let me share why I often favour the humble tubestock plant over its more advanced counterparts and why you might want to do the same.
Understanding the Root: Shoot Ratio
At its core, the root: shoot ratio is a measure of equilibrium. Roots anchor the plant, absorb water and nutrients, and store energy, while the shoots (leaves, stems, and flowers) drive photosynthesis, growth, and reproduction. A healthy balance ensures that a plant can sustain itself, particularly during stressors like drought, transplantation, or pest attacks.
When a plant’s foliage is disproportionately large compared to its root system—often the case with advanced plants in oversized pots—it struggles to support itself. The roots may be unable to uptake enough water and nutrients to fuel the demands of the canopy, leading to stress, slower growth, and reduced vigour.
The Hidden Strength of Tubestock
Buying a smaller, less-developed plant might seem counterintuitive, but tubestock has an inherent advantage. These younger plants typically have root systems proportionate to their size, allowing them to establish quickly when transplanted. Because they haven’t been restricted in oversized pots, their roots are less likely to be pot-bound or encircled, which can lead to long-term issues like girdling and poor nutrient uptake.
From my own experience, tubestock plants tend to “hit the ground running.” Their compact root systems adapt more readily to the garden soil, growing outwards to establish a strong, extensive network. This adaptability often means that within a season or two, tubestock plants outpace their larger, more mature counterparts, both in growth and resilience.
Why Tubestock Outgrows Potted Plants
I’ve come to appreciate the quiet magic of tubestock. These young plants, full of potential, adapt swiftly to the world beyond the nursery’s care. Unlike their older, potted counterparts, they haven’t lingered too long in comfort, tethered by roots bound tightly in circles. Instead, they are ready to stretch and grow, their roots eager to anchor deeply into the soil. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, less time in the safety of ideal conditions leads to greater strength and resilience in the wild beauty of a garden.
As illustrated in the the KES Community Nursery’s case study (images below), the difference between tubestock (right-hand images) and potted plants (left-hand images) becomes clear when you see their results. In February 2009, they planted three messmate gums at the nursery—two tubestock and one more mature tree in a 30cm pot.
Fast forward 20 months, and the results speak for themselves. The tubestock trees had grown to nearly double the height of the potted tree, as seen in their comparison photos. Against the fence railing, the striking contrast in growth rates highlights the advantage of starting with tubestock. Younger, adaptable plants establish faster and grow stronger than their older, pot-bound counterparts - those lacking the vital root-to-shoot ratio.
For more details and to see the comparison yourself, visit their page: KES Community Nursery.
30cm pot Tubestock
One week after planting.
Five months after planting.
Fourteen months after planting.
Twenty months after planting.
The nursery was hit by strong winds 2 years after planting. The tubestock plant performs considerably better.
Reference: (https://www.kes.org.au/nursery/tubes)
The Practical and Sustainable Choice
Opting for tubestock isn’t just better for plant health; it’s also a more sustainable choice. Smaller plants require fewer resources to grow and transport, making them a more environmentally friendly option. They’re often more economical, too—perfect for filling out larger garden spaces without breaking the budget.
A Personal Perspective
I vividly recall planting a windbreak at Oak and Monkey Puzzle using nothing more than a collection of small tube plants. The results were astonishing. Within a few years, the slender saplings had grown into a robust, thriving hedge, outpacing neighbouring advanced plantings. Witnessing the transformation reinforced my belief in the power of starting small.
Even now, at Little Cottage on a Hill, I often find myself reaching for tubestock to create layers of growth in my productive garden. Watching these small plants establish, flourish, and eventually take centre stage is a testament to their hidden strength and potential.
Tips for Success with Tubestock
1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the planting area and enrich it with organic matter. A well-aerated, nutrient-rich soil gives roots the perfect start.
2. Water Wisely: Young roots need consistent moisture, but avoid waterlogging, which can cause rot. Drip irrigation systems are ideal.
3. Mulch Generously: Mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, creating the perfect environment for roots to grow.
4. Patience is Key: While it might take a little longer to see the results you’re after, the long-term rewards are well worth the wait.
Rooted in this understanding…
Gardening teaches us that growth is not a race but a journey. By embracing the root:shoot ratio and the inherent vigour of smaller plants, we not only set our gardens up for success but also align with the rhythms of nature—working with the land rather than imposing upon it.
So next time you’re choosing plants for your garden, consider reaching for the tubestock. These unassuming little plants may just surprise you with their strength and vitality. After all, in gardening, as in life, it’s not about how big you start but how well you grow.
