How to Plant a Bare Root

First of all what exactly is a bare root? Bare root is the term used to describe plants that are available in the winter and were raised in nurseries and shipped in sand or sawdust. They usually look like a stick and nothing more. However the wise gardener knows that this stick is alive and, best of all, it is one of the least expensive and easiest ways to add plants to your garden! Plus, it gets you out of the house and into the yard for a few minutes of fresh air during the long winter. All sorts of fruit trees, berries and roses are available as bare roots. They are widely available at your local nurseries between December and March.

Just 10 easy steps!

Just follow these easy steps to plant one. (Note: Bare roots can also be planted in containers--pots should be at least 14" deep and 1 1/2' wide.) Wine half barrels are ideal.

1. If container growing, follow the in-ground steps below, but use Potting Soil—ideally suited for large containers.
2. When you get your bare root home from the nursery, carefully open the package (they usually come wrapped in plastic), save the package so you remember what you bought—you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget!
3. Gently, shake off the sawdust used to pack the plant, be careful not to damage the roots.
4. Prune off broken or damaged branches and roots. Soak overnight in a bucket of water to rehydrate the roots.
5. Next day, dig a whole large enough to spread roots out.
6. Amend backfill (dirt removed from hole) with a couple shovelfuls of Planting Mix or compost.
7. Put a shovel full in the hole too, and build a small mound at the bottom of the hole.
8. Drape roots over this mound. Fill hole up and make a small basin around to catch water.
9. Mulch with OSH Garden Compost or Redwood Soil Conditioner.
10. Water deeply and thoroughly.

In the spring watch for the miracle of new leaves and your plant is alive!