What to Do with Bare Root Trees before Planting

Deciding to plant bare root trees can be a cost-effective way to add new trees to your landscape. Bare root trees are trees that have been grown in a field then harvested and stored without soil around their roots. Before planting bare root trees, there are a few steps you should follow to help ensure they establish and grow properly.

Inspect the Trees

The first step in preparing bare root trees for planting is to inspect them carefully. Look for broken, damaged, or diseased roots, as well as any signs of insect or other pest infestation. Remove any dead or damaged roots with a sharp pair of pruning shears, making clean cuts just above the damaged area. Also, make sure to remove any remaining debris or soil that may be covering the roots. This will help prevent disease and rot from affecting the tree once planted.

Soak the Roots

After inspecting and trimming the roots, soak them in a bucket of water for at least an hour before planting. This will help to rehydrate the roots, which may have dried out during transit or storage. Be sure to submerge the entire root system in the water to ensure all roots are adequately soaked. Avoid soaking for too long as the roots can become waterlogged.

Refresh the Soil

Before planting, it's important to ensure your soil is prepared adequately for new trees. Dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root system and loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to promote drainage. Mix in some organic material, such as compost or well-rotted manure, and a slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees to provide the young tree with essential nutrients. Avoid using soil from the same hole where you just dug as that soil may be compacted and less healthy.

Planting the Trees

When planting bare root trees, make sure the roots are spaced evenly throughout the hole and that the tree is planted at the same depth it was in the nursery. Gently backfill the hole with soil, taking care not to compact it too much around the roots. Once the hole is filled, water the tree thoroughly to help settle the soil and remove any air pockets that may have formed. Finally, covering the planted area with a layer of mulch can help to retain moisture and prevent weeds from taking root.

Caring for New Trees

After planting, it's important to care for your new trees properly. Water them regularly to ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil regularly to ensure it drains adequately and to make sure the tree is not being overwatered or underwatered. Fertilize the tree again after a few months to provide additional nutrients for healthy growth. Take note that grafting or air layering a tree usually require special instruction and care, which is typically not covered by this article.

Conclusion

Bare root trees are a cost-effective way to add new trees to your landscape. Take care to inspect, trim, and soak the roots before planting, and ensure your soil is adequately prepared. Plant the trees carefully and provide ongoing care, and you'll be rewarded with healthy, beautiful trees that add a lot of value to your property.