they are not rootbound i have tried 6 inch pots and this time 3 inch because i was afraid that the soil wouldn't dry quick enough and they die at about 2.5 to 3 weeks. i transplanted my current plant into a 9 inch pot with about 45-50% perlite and i dont think i am seeing to much of an improvement. and yeah i guess the smell is more like amonia, reminds me of when i would leave my cats litter box for a week, but not as strong, sorry no camera so no pics