root ball

noun

\ ˈrüt-ˌbȯl

How to pronounce root ball (audio)

also ˈru̇t- \

Definition of root ball

: the compact mass of roots and soil formed by a plant especially in a container

Examples of root ball in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Make sure the root ball is moist and water frequently to help your new plants become established. — Tom Maccubbin, orlandosentinel.com, "It’s difficult to determine what hybrid tomato plant seeds will produce," 1 May 2021 Gently separate the root ball in the planting hole, and fill with soil. — Patricia S York, Southern Living, "How To Plant a Rose Bush," 25 Mar. 2021 Before starting to dig the hole, remove burlap, excess soil and mulch from the top and measure the height of the actual root ball. — Dallas News, "When planting a tree, take time to prepare the hole properly," 19 Oct. 2020 Dig the planting hole for the replacement hollies to the same depth as the plant is in the container and two to three times as wide as the root ball. — Calvin Finch, San Antonio Express-News, "Why hollies are a great choice to replace freeze-damaged xylosma, oleander, boxwood, loquats, dwarf pittosporum and viburnum," 30 Apr. 2021 The pot's diameter should be 1 to 2 inches larger than the root ball. — Kelly Allen, House Beautiful, "Here's How to Properly Care for an Aloe Vera Plant," 29 Apr. 2021 Make sure the top of the root ball is a teeny bit higher than the surrounding soil and then cover it with an inch of organic mulch. — Steve Bender, Southern Living, "Plant Native Azaleas This Year," 8 Apr. 2021 Once the root ball has completely dried out, remove the bulb from the soil and store in a cool place such as a basement until fall. — Derek Carwood, Better Homes & Gardens, "How to Grow and Care for Easter Lilies to Enjoy Their Gorgeous Blooms," 5 Mar. 2021 Dig a hole that is slightly wider but equally in depth to the rose's root ball. — Patricia S York, Southern Living, "How To Plant a Rose Bush," 25 Mar. 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'root ball.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Dictionary Entries near root ball

root and branch

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Last Updated

16 May 2021

Cite this Entry

“Root ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/root%20ball. Accessed 17 May. 2021.

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