Hello, I recently harvested a runt. I grow in hydro and I have another plant that needs another 2 weeks. The two plants made a massive root ball. Will it be ok to leave the harvested plants roots in the basin, or will it rot, meaning I need to try to cut it away? The harvested plant stalk is cut about 2 inches above the basin.
I would remove what you can. Gently pull apart and cut tangled roots apart. Cutting some live root won't hurt the plant. Leaving some of the old root won't be a disaster.
I left my roots in the water the entire week I was harvesting and they were fine. The plant will still work. Pay attention to the hole in the stem and you will still see water trickling out or at least I did.