transplanting seedlings

Hi all,
I started some gallardia 'arizona sun' blanket flower a few weeks ago in a tray. Once they got the first 2 pairs of true leaves, I transplanted each to its own 2x2 cell in those cell packs you get from the store as per the directions. My question is: Some of the roots on these gallardia were LONG!! I'm talking 6 - 8 inches in length! I didn't feel comfortable with just packing (and likely knoting) all the roots into the small 2x2 cell, so I pinched the roots back to a few inches. I was wondering if my doing that is the correct way? Would like to learn for future use. Thanks :).

Plants that have long roots,I plant in larger pots.I use 2 liter bottles.Cut the top off and drill some drainage holes in the bottom.If you use the clear ones,you can even watch root growth.I doubt you hurt the plants.At this early stage they will probably just from new ones but why take the chance?Edge

Pinching back the roots will promote lateral branching of the root system and result in healthier roots when it's time to transplant. Of course the balance between root and shoot mass needs to be maintained, so don't cut off too many roots on larger plants. It is similar to what occurs with "air pruning" when roots grow out the open bottom of containers and exposure to air/light/dryness prunes them off. On deep rooted perennials I use cardboard plant bands that are 1.5 or 2 inches square and range from 4-6 inches in height. These are made of cardboard similar to milk cartons and are open on both ends. The bands are filled with media, planted and placed either on mesh trays or on wire mesh on benches to allow air to reach the bottom of the tube. I've found the root mass is much greater and healthier than growing plants out in cell packs. They never become root bound and they also use much less soil than trying to pot everything out into 4" or larger pots. An additional benefit is that they are completely biodegradable even though they are rated for 9-12 up to 18 months of use depending on the grade of tube used.