7 Tips for Bareroot Planting Success

Bare-root trees have no soil around their roots to protect them which require extra care to ensure transplant success and establishment.

Bare-root trees must be planted in the spring before growth begins, and preferably when the soil is dry enough to crumble. If rainy weather, mucky soils, or other circumstances prevent planting within a few days, the trees must be stored in a cool, dark location. Root systems must be protected from drying out.

Prior to planting, the tree’s roots should be soaked in water, then kept moist and out of the sun until the tree is planted. Wet burlap works well for keeping root systems moist.

1.    The planting hole should be dug wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots. The depth of the hole should be the distance from the tree’s root flare to the bottom of the roots when flattened out. 

2.    Put the backfill soil on a tarp and break it up so it can be easily worked in between the larger roots. 

3.    Roots should not be cut or trimmed unless dead, dried up or broken. Pruning roots indiscriminately at planting is counterproductive

4.    When positioning the tree in the hole, roots should be directed straight out from the trunk. It is helpful to build a small cone of soil to set the tree on. This will allow the root flare to be set even with the surrounding soil surface. 

5.    Firm the soil with your hands and water the tree thoroughly. Bare-root trees should not be pruned or tipped to balance the crown with the root system. This practice is counterproductive. 

6.    Bare-root trees require staking until their roots have had a chance to re-establish. Mulch the trees with woodchips up to 2 inches deep. Taper the mulch close to the trunk.

7.    Newly planted trees require supplemental watering once a week for the first 2-3 months. 5 gallons per watering should be sufficient with each watering.