Bare root plants are dug up while dormant and sold with their roots free of soil. ​
Why bare root? They are less expensive than container plants to purchase and to ship. They are young plants that often establish more quickly. There is no chance of transporting invasive pests, like jumping worms or winter moth pupae that may be in the soil.
Caring for Bare Root Stock 
  • Planting within 72 hours? Keep plants in plastic packing and soak roots for 4-6 hours before planting. Store in a cool, dark place.
  • Planting within 5 days? Re-pack plants in a container with drainage in damp mulch, sawdust, or shredded newspaper. Compress to remove air and keep watered in a cool, dark place. 
  • Holding plants for longer? Pot plants in soil and keep well-watered through the summer. Move to permanent location in the fall. You can also dig a trench and plant stock into the ground and cover with soil. Keep well-watered until ready to move to permanent location.
Planting Bare Root Stock
  • Soak roots for 4-6 hours before planting (for conifers, soak for 1/2 hour) 
  • Make a hole with sloping sides--as deep as the root system and twice as wise--and mound soil in the middle 
  • Spread roots evenly over the mound and prune away any damaged roots. No bent or twisted roots!
  • Position the crown of the plant at ground level and firm soil around the roots to remove air pockets
  • Form a soil ring around the plant to create a subtle watering basin. Water slowly and deeply, about 1" per week.