Do You Have to Soak Bare Root Trees Before Planting?

Bare root trees are an ideal choice for your garden as they are available in a wide variety and are economical. However, it is essential to provide these trees with adequate moisture before planting them. So, do you need to soak bare root trees before planting? The answer is yes. But, how to do it correctly? In this article, we will discuss why soaking bare root trees before planting is necessary and how to soak them efficiently.

Why Soak Bare Root Trees Before Planting?

Bare root trees have no soil around their roots; therefore, they tend to lose moisture from their roots faster than other trees. Planting these trees without soaking them may cause them to dry out, leading to a loss of water and nutrition, stunting their growth, and even killing them. By soaking bare root trees, you are rehydrating the roots and providing them with the necessary moisture to grow properly. Furthermore, soaking provides an excellent opportunity to inspect the roots and detect any damages before planting.

How to Soak Bare Root Trees?

Soaking bare root trees before planting is a simple process. Here's how to do it:

Choose an adequate-sized container: Choose a container that can accommodate the tree's roots comfortably. A container should be wide enough to hold the roots and deep enough to accommodate the entire tree.

Fill the container with water: Add enough water to the container so that it can cover the roots of the tree.

Soak the tree: Place the bare root tree in the container and soak it for 6-12 hours or overnight.

Inspect the roots: While the tree is soaking, inspect the roots, and remove any damaged, dead or broken roots.

Plant the tree: Once you finish soaking and inspecting, the bare root tree is now ready to plant.

Conclusion

Soaking bare root trees before planting ensures they have adequate moisture and nutrients to grow and thrive. So, do you have to soak bare root trees before planting? Yes, it is vital to soak bare root trees before planting. By doing so, you can help the tree grow strong and healthy for many years to come. Follow the simple steps outlined above to soak your bare root trees, and you will enjoy a beautiful and thriving garden.