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"j" root
This root defect can cause problems later. It often results from the soft tap root getting bent when planted from a common tray into a small propagation tray. When main roots emerge too deep in the media, they can grow up toward the surface as shown above. When the root reaches the surface, it grows around or down causing a constriction and reducing branching. The root can be cut at the point where it begins to turn but this tree may not survive that treatment because of the large diameter of the "J" root. It is better to cull this tree now than allow it to grow larger.
