Fremont Cottonwood (Populis Fremontii) - UPDATE

 Below is an exerpt from the latest entry to the Photo/History page for the Fremont Cottonwood; click to see full history for this little tree.

Looking back at my notes, the Cottonwood is/was overdue for a repot; this tree has really come into it's own this summer, showing clear, sustained growth after months of little or no growth. Also, I wanted to take the opportunity to transition from traditional potting soil to a non-organic potting mix.

As might be expected, root growth was considerable, but I was pleased to see so much new 'feeder root' development. (small white roots, growing from the center, outward) as these are the roots that we want to develop, while cutting away the old "woody' roots that the plant does not need if it is potted.

I also decided, in light of the growth he has had this summer that I it was time for the Cottonwood to have a new home..a nice, new ceramic tray, never used. The repot did not go well. As you can see from the photo, he exhibited all the symptoms of 'transplant shock' & I wasn't sure he survive overnight, but survive, he did, although at the cost of some foliage.

I cut-off some wilted leaves & I think he'll be alright, but I I'll handle him with "kid gloves" for the next few days & try to avoid any kind of stress to this little tree..

UPDATE: 10/13/26

After 2 days of rain, followed by a cold snap, today is dawning clear & we will get some good sunshine today to dry things out. I'm happy to report that the Cottonwood has snapped-back from root surgery & transplanting into our new 'dirt-free' potting mix. He is standing straight, no droopy or wilted leaves in sight & there are even new bright-green buds on a couple of branches..he's fine.