When is it ok to shorten roots?

[caroline7758]

I know it's often recommended to snip the roots of leeks before you plant them and I'm not sure why.
When I was pricking out some coriander today (I know it's said it doesn't transplant well, but that's another matter!) I was amazed how long the roots were and wondered if I could snip them before putting into pots/ground, rather than have to dig really deep or have the roots curling round? Despite only having one true leaf some of the roots were about a foot long!

[caroline7758]

[strawberry1]

I usually cut leek roots by a third at least so that they `plop` neatly into their holes. I did the strawberries that I wanted to get into planters and they have all settled and started growing. Most stuff seems to be ok but I use modules for all seeds, except leeks, which I just grow in a heap in tall pots

[caroline7758]

Thanks- I didn't think I was going to get any response to this one!

[gavinjconway]

"They" say that it actually makes no difference to the leek if you cut it or not.. just easier to plonk them in with their roots trimmed.. But you should also trim the top if you trim the legs!!

[Obelixx]

Leeks don't mind but coriander sulks after any root disturbance so don't add insult to injury by cutting them too.

[Unwashed]

I never shorten the roots - too much faff.  I just stick the leek in the dibbed hole and pour the water in, and if the roots want to dangle out the hole I let them, and the leeks don't mind.