Steps For Successful Planting Of Bareroot Trees And Shrubs

Immediately unpack your plants, check the roots for moisture.

If bareroot plant roots look dry:  Soak tree and shrub roots in water 3 to 6 hours.

Soak strawberries, asparagus for 10-20 minutes.

Do not allow the roots to dry out; keep them moist but not saturated.  Sprinkle roots and packing materials with water.

Keep plants, cool (35-50°F), and away from wind, even while planting other plants.

Plant as soon as possible! It is best to plant them within 24 hours from receipt, if you will be delayed in planting them, heel plants into ground in a protected location.

Scalp a two-foot circle in planting area, removing all sod & weeds.

Dig a hole wide enough for roots to spread out. Remember that roots grow down & laterally.

Mound some soil in the center of the planting hole. Drape roots over the mound.

Position the roots so they hang down over the mound & are not turned up or crowded.

Plant trees & shrubs to the depth they were planted in the nursery. The junction of the stem & root should be level with the ground. Back fill the planting hole with loose soil & gently pack the surface after filling the hole.

Build a berm around the planting hole to hold water. Water the plant thoroughly after backfilling the planting hole to eliminate any remaining air pockets.

The key to the survival and success of your bareroot plants is regular watering during the first three years, especially during dry spells.