Container Sizes

(Left to right in above image)

• 4-pack: These are small plastic packages of 4 plants. We use these packs for annuals with small root systems.
• Extra small band:  These are 2 inches wide and 4 inches tall, with an open bottom. They are made of the same material as milk cartons. (More info about bands below)
• 4-inch pot: These are about 4 inches from corner to corner, but not as tall as bands.
• Small band: These are 2 inches wide and 6 inches tall, with an open bottom. They are made of the same material as milk cartons. (More info about bands below)
• Medium band: These are 2.5 inches wide and 8 inches tall, with an open bottom. They are made of the same material as milk cartons. (More info about bands below)
• 1-Gallon pot: These are about 7 inches tall and about 6 inches wide. There are many varieties, some are square.

 

More Information about Bands

Root Development and Air Pruning

You may be familiar with root-bound plants: This happens when plants sit in containers for a long time, and their roots circle around the outside of the container. This can result in plants that are difficult to take out of the container, and can cause transplant shock and other problems after the plants are in the ground.

Bands have open bottoms, unlike other common pots. When roots get to the bottom of these containers, they don't circle around - instead, they just stop growing, and the plant puts more development into side roots, which also grow down and out. Once the plant is in the ground, the roots will start growing again, which reduces transplant shock. Bands are also tall, thin containers. This means that once the plant is in the ground, it has long roots that are ready to search for water deep in the ground.

Material

Bands are made from the same material as milk cartons. They are 96% paper, with a very thin layer of plastic on the inside and outside. While they use much less plastic than other containers, they are not fully biodegradable, so they should not be left in the ground. After planting, they should be recycled. Bands slowly degrade while sitting in the nursery, so by the time they are ready to plant, they are usually spongy and discolored. This is not a problem, it just means the plants slide out easier!