How to Plant Bare Root Trees: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planting bare root trees is an excellent way to establish a thriving garden or orchard. These trees are cost-effective, easy to handle, and have a strong ability to establish quickly when planted correctly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from preparation to post-planting care, ensuring your bare root trees grow healthy and strong.

Key Takeaways

• Best Planting Time: Plant bare root trees during the dormant season (November–March).
• Preparation is Key: Remove turf, weeds, and improve soil with organic matter before planting.
• Root Care: Always soak the roots before planting and heel them in if planting is delayed.
• Correct Positioning: Plant at the original soil line with the graft union above ground level.
• Aftercare: Stake the tree, mulch to retain moisture, and protect it from animals with guards.

Why Choose Bare Root Trees?

Bare root trees are grown in open ground and harvested during their dormant season. They come without soil around their roots, making them lighter, easier to transport, and less expensive. When properly handled, they adapt quickly to their new environment.

Preparation

Timing and preparation are critical to ensure success:

Planting Season: Bare root trees must be planted during their dormant period, ideally between November and March, when the ground is not frozen.

Site Preparation:

• Remove turf and weeds from a 3-foot (1m) diameter area.
• Dig out perennial weeds to reduce competition.
• Incorporate organic matter, like well-rotted compost, into the soil to improve its structure and fertility. This is especially important for sandy or clay-heavy soils.

Pre-Planting Steps

Caring for the Roots:

• Soak the tree roots in tepid water for 10–30 minutes before planting. This rehydrates the roots and prepares them for their new environment.
• If planting is delayed, temporarily "heel in" the tree by burying the roots in damp soil or placing them in a shallow trench.

Planting Process

1. Prepare the Hole

• Dig a wide, deep hole to accommodate the entire root system. Aim for the hole to be twice as wide as the root spread.
• Ensure the roots can spread out naturally without bending or circling.
• Insert a stake into the hole, driving it at least 60cm (2 feet) deep to provide future support.

2. Position the Tree

• Place the tree in the hole at the same depth as it grew in its previous location. You can identify this by a colour change on the trunk, which shows the original soil line.
• Make sure the graft union (a swollen area on the trunk) is positioned above ground level.

3. Fill the Hole

• Backfill the hole with soil, shaking the tree gently as you go to ensure soil settles around the roots.
• Firm the soil lightly to remove air pockets, but avoid compacting it too much.
• Water thoroughly to help the soil settle further.

Post-Planting Care

1. Stake and Tie the Tree:

• Secure the tree to the stake with a rubber tie, ensuring it allows for some movement to encourage a strong trunk.

2. Mulch:

• Spread a 5cm (2-inch) layer of organic mulch, such as wood chippings or compost, around the base of the tree. This helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Keep the mulch a few centimetres away from the trunk to prevent rot.

3. Protect the Tree:

• Use tree guards or netting to protect the trunk from animal damage, especially in areas with rabbits or deer.

Important Tips for Success

• Avoid planting in frozen or waterlogged soil.
• Water the tree regularly during its first growing season, especially in dry periods.
• Never plant too deeply, as this can lead to trunk rot.

Why the Dormant Season Matters

The dormant season is the perfect time to plant bare root trees, as their energy is focused on establishing roots rather than supporting leaves or fruit. By the time spring arrives, the tree will have a strong foundation to thrive.

FAQ: Common Questions About Planting Bare Root Trees

1. Can I plant bare root trees outside the dormant season?


No, bare root trees should only be planted during the dormant season (November to March). Planting during active growth can stress the tree and reduce its chances of survival.

2. What should I do if I can’t plant my bare root tree immediately?


If you can’t plant the tree right away, “heel it in” by burying the roots in damp soil or placing them in a temporary trench to keep them moist and protected.

3. How deep should I plant a bare root tree?


Plant the tree at the same depth it grew in its previous location. The colour change on the trunk indicates the original soil line. The graft union should remain above ground.

4. Do bare root trees need fertiliser?


Avoid fertilisers at planting time, as they can damage young roots. Focus on improving soil with organic matter and adding mulch to retain moisture.

5. How do I protect my tree from animals?


Use tree guards or netting to protect the trunk and lower branches from rabbits, deer, and other animals.