Certified Arborist Practice Test

The process referred to in the question is known as root pruning. This technique involves trimming the roots of a plant before transplanting it, which encourages the growth of new roots and helps to create a denser root ball. Root pruning can improve the plant's adaptability and resilience to transplant shock by stimulating the formation of fine roots, which are crucial for the plant's establishment in a new location.

When performed properly, root pruning allows for healthier growth after the transplanting process, as it reduces the overall root mass while promoting a denser concentration of roots in the remaining root ball. This is particularly beneficial for trees and shrubs, as it enhances their ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil once relocated.

Other options, such as soil aeration, involve loosening the soil to improve air exchange and water infiltration, but do not specifically create a denser-rooted ball. Hedging refers to the process of trimming a plant to control its shape and size rather than preparing it for transplanting. Transplanting itself is the act of moving the plant from one location to another, which may or may not involve root pruning as a preparatory step.