It might be helpful if we knew what kinds of plants, and what size containers.

These plants are in one gallon pots and the types of plants are Gazanias, different types of Geraniums, euryop daisies, fountain grass, rosemary and several others.
Do I go ahead and let them get root bound before I re-pot into bigger containers, or is there a trick I am missing?
Elizabeth

What type of fertilization program do you have?

I use Osmocote slow release formula that lasts 4 months. THe numbers are 19-6-12.
Elly29

Elizabeth,

You might try using a more balanced fertilzer. I use Osmocote 14-14-14, and don't have that problem.

Also are you familiar with spin out? They now have pots already treated with spin out.

Here's a little about spin out.

Here is a link that might be useful: spin out

Pollyny,
Where can I purchase some of these containers that are treated with this Spinout? I can't seem to find a place that sells them?
Elly29

Elizabeth, not really sure, as I've never used them, but would suggest contacting Griffin Greenhouse and Nursery. If they don't carry them, I'm sure they can tell you where to get them. Maybe someone else on this forum will know?

You can also use Bottom Shield from West Marine.Dilute with paint thinner.

Osmocote doesn't release under 70 degree soil temps, so I suspect that that may be part of the problem. Sulfur coated slow release ferts release at 45 degree soil temps, but if you add that now, you might have a soluble salts buildup when the temps warm and the osmocote kicks in. I would do a EC test and see what your soluble salts level is, and if it's low, then start a weekly liquid fert program until the temps are warm enough to kick in.
I also am wondering if its warm enough to see active growth on some of these plants that you are growing-gazania needs really hot weather to grow (not subsist) and fountain grass-pennisium, is considered an annual and even though its not cold enough to die there, it may be going into a type of dormancy? I am not familiar with the temps in your area, but I hope this helps

Here's a link for SpinOut containers.

Here is a link that might be useful: SpinOut

Hi terryster-

I'm also in zone 7, and Pennisetum alopecuroides & P. alopecuroides 'Hameln', 'Little Bunny' and others are completely hardy here. The only commonly available Pennisetum here that is an annual is the Purple Fountain Grass.