root ball; root clump
Refers to the mass of roots and soil that comes out when a potted plant is removed from its container. Common in gardening and horticulture contexts.
When repotting, gently remove the plant from the pot so as not to break the root ball.
Seedlings with a firm root ball establish well after planting.
Compound of 根 (ne, 'root') and 鉢 (hachi, 'pot' or 'bowl'), referring to the pot-shaped mass of roots and soil.