Bare root plants are plants that are sold without any soil around the roots. They are usually dug up when they are dormant, which means they are not actively growing. This is typically when they are dormant in the winter, then they are packaged and sold.

Bare root plants need to be planted within 1-2 weeks after they are purchased. It is important to store bare root plants appropriately until you are ready to plant, as they can be susceptible to root rot.

(Featured Image: Blueberry by Tiltti)

Bare root plants can be stored in a cool, dark place before planting. Some good options include:

• A garage or shed
• A basement or cellar
• An unheated room in your house
• A shady spot outdoors

If you store your bare root plants in a cool, dark place, they will stay dormant and will not start to grow. This will give you time to plant them when the weather is right. Be sure to store in a dark location until you are ready to plant.

When storing bare root plants, it is important to keep the roots moist. You can do this by wrapping the roots in damp burlap or newspaper and placing them in a plastic bag. Be sure to open the bag every few days to let in some fresh air.

If you’re not ready to plant your bare root plants immediately, you can “heel them in” to temporarily protect the roots. This process involves burying the roots in a shallow trench to keep them moist and healthy until planting.

Steps to Heel In Bare Root Plants:

1. Dig a Trench: Choose a shaded spot and dig a trench deep enough to fully cover the roots while leaving the stems or crowns above ground.
2. Position the Plants: Place the roots into the trench, spreading them out to avoid crowding.
3. Cover the Roots: Fill the trench with soil, ensuring the roots are completely buried. Gently press the soil down to remove air pockets.
4. Water Regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent the roots from drying out.

When to Heel In:

Heeling in is useful if you need extra time to prepare your garden or are waiting for improved weather conditions. Bare root plants can typically stay heeled in for up to two weeks.

This simple method ensures your bare root plants remain viable until you’re ready to plant them in their permanent location.

Planting bare root plants requires proper preparation to ensure they establish successfully. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Prepare the Site:

   • Select a location with full sun or partial shade.
   • Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. If drainage is poor, amend the soil with sand or gravel to improve it.

2. Dig the Planting Hole:

   • Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the roots.

3. Prepare the Roots:

   • If the roots are tangled or compacted, gently loosen them with your fingers to encourage outward growth.

4. Position the Plant:

   • Place the plant in the hole with the crown (where the trunk meets the roots) level with the soil surface. Avoid burying the crown, as this can cause rot.

5. Backfill and Water:

   • Refill the hole with soil, pressing it gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
   • Water thoroughly to settle the soil and hydrate the plant.

6. Apply Mulch:

   • Spread a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it a few inches away from the crown to prevent rot.

7. Water Regularly:

   • Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first few weeks as the plant establishes.

8. Fertilize in Spring:

   • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring, following the instructions on the label.
9. Be Patient:
   • Bare root plants may take several weeks to break dormancy. Watch for buds as a sign that the plant is establishing and beginning to grow.

With proper care, your bare root plant will thrive and contribute beauty and vitality to your garden!

Bare root plants offer numerous advantages for gardeners looking for a cost-effective, versatile, and eco-friendly way to add greenery to their space. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

1. Cost-Effective:

   • Bare root plants are typically less expensive than potted plants because they are easier to grow and transport. Without the added costs of containers, potting soil, and extended nursery care, they’re a budget-friendly option for gardeners.

2. Versatility:

   • Bare root plants are highly adaptable to different soils and climates. Unlike potted plants, their roots aren’t confined to a container, allowing them to spread freely and establish more effectively in new environments. This makes them ideal for challenging planting conditions.

3. Environmentally Friendly:

   • Producing bare root plants requires fewer resources than potted plants. They eliminate the need for plastic pots and potting soil, reducing waste and energy consumption. Additionally, their lightweight nature makes shipping more energy-efficient, lowering their overall carbon footprint.

4. Higher Survival Rates:

   • Bare root plants establish more quickly because they are dormant when planted, minimizing transplant shock. Once in the ground, their unrestricted roots adapt and grow faster, making them more likely to thrive in the long term.

5. Easier to Handle:

   • Without the bulk of a container, bare root plants are lighter and easier to transport, handle, and plant. This convenience is especially helpful when planting multiple trees, shrubs, or perennials.

Why Choose Bare Root Plants?

Starting with bare root plants not only saves money but also promotes healthier, more sustainable gardening practices. By opting for these eco-friendly, adaptable plants, you can create a thriving garden that aligns with both your budget and your environmental values.