How to Plant a Bare Root Tree

Bare root trees are to be planted when they’re dormant from November to March. If planting conditions are not ideal when the tree arrives, then heeling in is recommended. This allows the right planting moment to be taken from then on. Our tips on how to plant a bare root tree will help your tree get off to the best possible start in life.

Soak the roots for at least an hour before planting. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and break up the soil at the bottom of the hole. We recommend sprinkling a sachet of our Rootgrow mycorrhizal fungi to help the tree establish. Place the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is about an inch below ground level. Back fill with a mix of compost and soil and firm well so there are no air pockets. If the tree is in an exposed site then use the stake and tie to keep it steady for the first few years; place the stake on the westerly side. If there is any danger of rabbits or deer then put a guard round the trunk or they may strip the bark and harm the tree.

Go to Caring For Bare Root Trees and Rootstocks for detailed advice.

Watch this step-by-step video to guide you in the right direction of how to plant a bare root tree. If you are planting a container grown tree, head to How to Plant a Container Tree for advice and instructions.

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