What are Baby Trees to Plant Called?

When it comes to planting trees, there are several terms that are commonly used to refer to baby trees or seedlings that are planted in the ground. These terms vary depending on the size, age, and species of the tree being planted. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most frequently used terms and what they mean.

Saplings

Saplings are young trees that are typically between one and three years old. They are small enough to be planted by hand and are often used for reforestation efforts or as ornamental trees. Saplings are usually between 2 and 5 feet tall and have a relatively thin trunk and a small crown of branches at the top. Planting saplings is an effective way to create new forests or to replace trees that have been cut down.

Seedlings

Seedlings are even younger than saplings, typically only a few months old. They are often sold in bundles and are planted in large numbers to quickly establish new trees. Seedlings are very small, usually only a few inches tall, and have a single stem with a few small leaves at the top. Once planted, they will grow relatively quickly, eventually becoming saplings and then mature trees.

Bare Root Trees

Bare root trees are young trees that are sold and shipped without any soil around their roots. Instead, their roots are wrapped in a damp material to keep them moist during transport. These trees are usually one or two years old and are significantly smaller than fully grown trees. They are often used for landscaping and can be planted in the ground or in containers.

Whips

Whips are a type of bare root tree that are even smaller than saplings. They are typically less than one year old and have no branches or leaves. Whips are often used for hedgerows or windbreaks and are planted in large numbers to create a dense wall of foliage. Because they are so small, they are often very affordable and can be easily transported and planted.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planting trees for environmental reasons or for landscaping purposes, understanding the various terms for baby trees can be helpful. Saplings, seedlings, bare root trees, and whips are just a few of the terms you may encounter when shopping for trees. Each type of tree has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right type of tree for your needs. With proper care and maintenance, your baby trees will eventually grow into beautiful, mature trees that will provide shade, oxygen, and beauty for many years to come.