Score an X in the bottom and then scratch the roots and loosen.

With larger potted seedlings that are rootbound, score down the sides of the root ball 3-4 times from top to bottom... in addition to the X.

Kevin

Kenvin, is the X and the scoring in the pot or in the root ball?
Thanks!

on the root ball. The more you can loosen the roots, the better. But ,of course, you should take care to not break anymore roots than you have to. Put them in really good soil and water in well. If you live in Zone 5, you probably ought to provide some protection from cold too, like floating row cover, cloches or a cold frame. I suspect the plants were marked down drastically because it's very late for them to go into the ground and make much to eat this year. As the weather gets colder, the plants almost stop growing, if they don't freeze to death. But I live in Zone 8, so I could certainly be wrong! Good luck. You have very little to lose, so it's cheap experience.

Thank you, donnabaskets!
I'm actually on the outer banks of North Carolina right now, helping a friend with a very small garden. It is SO fun to plant things in this zone (I think it's 8) that I know won't freeze, and may not even vernalize. Back home it's snowing!