root ball

noun

ˈrüt-ˌbȯl 

also ˈru̇t-

variants or less commonly rootball

plural root balls also rootballs

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

If there are large circling roots or you have a difficult time straightening the roots, the root ball should be thinned and the soil loosened before planting.

—Carey Brothers

Examples of root ball in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Dig a hole two to three times wider and exactly the same depth as the root ball. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 9 Nov. 2026

Then add mulch up to the edge of the root ball and give normal care for a new planting. — Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Nov. 2026

Prepare a hole that is the same depth and slightly wider than the root ball. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 20 Oct. 2026

Engel advises watering the plant thoroughly in its old location to keep the root ball intact and have moisture at the ready when the plant is moved. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 26 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for root ball

• aldol
• armhole
• atoll
• awol
• backhaul
• banal
• baseball
• befall
• cabal
• catchall
• cecal
• centrale