How to Pot Bare Root Plants

Bare root plants are typically sold during the dormant season and can be a good option for gardeners looking for an affordable way to add new plants to their garden. These plants are sold without any soil or container, and need to be potted as soon as possible to have the best chance of survival. In this article, we’ll go over the steps to pot bare root plants properly.

Step 1: Soaking the roots

Before planting bare root plants, it’s important to soak the roots in water for a few hours. This will help to rehydrate the roots and prepare them for planting. Fill a large bucket with water and place the roots of the plant in it. You can also add some rooting hormone to the water to encourage faster growth.

Step 2: Preparing the pot

Choose a pot that is at least two inches wider and deeper than the root ball of the plant. Fill the pot with a good quality potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage. You can also add some slow-release fertilizer to the mix to provide nutrients to the plant as it grows.

Step 3: Planting the bare root plant

Once the roots have been soaked and the pot has been prepared, it’s time to plant the bare root plant. Make a hole in the center of the potting mix that is large enough to accommodate the root ball. Gently place the plant in the hole and fill in the gaps with more potting mix. Firm the mix around the plant to remove any air pockets.

Step 4: Watering and care

After planting the bare root plant, give it a good watering to settle the soil and help it establish in its new pot. Place the pot in a location that receives the appropriate amount of sunlight for the particular plant you’re growing. Water the plant regularly, ensuring that the soil stays moist but not water-logged. Feed the plant with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks to promote healthy growth.

Conclusion

Planting bare root plants can be a fun and fulfilling way to add new varieties to your garden. Following the steps outlined above will help you pot your bare root plants successfully, and give them the best chance of survival and growth. With a little care and attention, your bare root plants will thrive and add beauty to your garden for years to come.