Bare-Root Plants
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What is a bare-root plant?
A bare-root plant is a plant that is sold and sent to you without soil around the roots. Instead of being delivered in plastic nursery pots filled with compost like most of our products, they are dug up and shipped during their dormant season (usually late autumn to early spring). The roots are cleaned, and the plants are cooled to keep them dormant until they reach your front door.
Is it worth buying bare-root plants?
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Bare-root planting has gained popularity among gardeners for its numerous advantages. When you choose bare-root plants, you're investing in:
Cost-Effectiveness: Bare-root hedging is typically more budget-friendly than potted plants or container-grown plants. They are significantly cheaper than container-grown plants because they are lighter to ship and require less maintenance at the nursery
Healthier Roots: Without the confines of a pot, roots grow naturally and avoid becoming "root-bound." Once planted, they establish themselves quickly in your native soil. Additionally, as they are typically planted in the dormant season, bare root plants focus most of their initial energy on developing a strong root system, rather than foliage or flowers
Variety: A wide range of species and sizes are available, allowing you to select the perfect hedge for your garden.
Sustainability: By choosing bare-root, you reduce plastic waste and lower the carbon footprint associated with transporting heavy pots.
Easier Planting: They are lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, making the planting process much simpler for large-scale projects like hedges or orchards.
Our Selection
We take pride in offering a diverse and high-quality selection of bare-root planting options. Whether you're looking for a windbreak or a privacy screen hedge, your own orchard or just some summer fruit, you'll find the perfect plants for your needs. Our selection includes:
Bare-Root Hedging: An affordable way to create living boundaries, our bare-root hedging plants establish quickly to provide privacy, noise reduction, and essential habitats for local wildlife.
Bare-Root Roses: Available in a stunning array of colours and scents, bare-root roses are easy to plant and develop deep root systems for more attractive blooms
Bare-Root Fruit Trees: From crisp apples to juicy stone fruits, these trees allow you to grow your own organic fruit garden at a fraction of the cost
Bare-Root Trees: Our selection of native and ornamental bare-root trees offers the best survival rates and structural integrity for long-term growth in your garden.
Planting & Care Tips For Bare-Root Plants
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Planting bare-root plants is relatively simple, but proper care is essential for their success. Here are some tips to get you started:
Plant at the Right Time: Plant your bare root plants during their dormant season, typically in late autumn or early spring.
Prepare the Soil: Ensure your soil is well-drained and enriched with compost or organic matter.
Spacing: Follow spacing guidelines to allow for healthy growth and air circulation.
Watering: Keep your newly planted bare-roots well-watered, especially during the first growing season.
Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and density of your plants over time.
Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture and deter weeds.
Fertilisation: Consider periodic fertilisation to promote healthy growth.
Bare-Root Plants: Frequently Asked Questions
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Do bare-root plants need to be planted immediately?
While it is best to get them in the ground as soon as possible, you don't have to plant them the second they arrive. If the weather is too cold or the ground is frozen, you can safely store them in a cool, frost-free place (like a shed or garage) for a few days. Just ensure the roots remain moist and covered.
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Do you need to soak bare-root plants?
Yes! Soaking is a crucial step. We recommend placing the roots in a bucket of water for 30 to 60 minutes before planting. This rehydrates the plant after its journey and "wakes up" the root system, giving it the best possible start in its new home. If you're not planning on planting immediately, store in a cool, frost-free place.
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What do you do with bare-root plants when they arrive?
First, unpack them carefully and check that the roots are in good condition. If you aren't planting immediately, keep them in their packaging in a cool, dark spot. If you need to wait more than 2–3 days, you can "heel them in" by temporarily covering the roots in a shallow trench or a large pot of loose soil to keep them protected. If you're ready to plant, soak the roots in water for 30-60 minutes to "wake up" the root system.Â
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Are bare-root plants easy to grow?
Absolutely! In many ways, they are easier to establish than potted plants. Because they are planted while dormant, they experience less "transplant shock." By the time spring arrives, their root systems are already settled and ready to support vigorous new growth.
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Why are bare-root plants cheaper?
Bare-root plants are more cost-effective because they are lighter and easier to ship without the weight of soil and plastic pots. This allows us to pass those savings directly to you, making it the most budget-friendly way to plant large hedges, orchards, or rose gardens.
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How long do bare-root plants last?
If kept in their original packaging in a cool place, they typically last 3 to 5 days. If "heeled in" (temporarily covered with soil), they can stay dormant for several weeks. However, the goal is always to get them into their permanent position before the spring warmth triggers new growth.
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What are the disadvantages of bare-root plants?
The main "downside" is the limited window for purchase: they are only available during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring). They also require a little more immediate attention upon arrival than a potted plant, which can sit on a patio for weeks. Also, when buying bare-root, you are often buying plants at a younger stage, so, of course, they will take longer to reach their full potential than a container-grown plant that may have been cared for for longer. However, this is also what makes them cost-effective.
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When is the best time to plant bare-root plants?
The ideal planting window is between November and March. Planting during this dormant period allows the roots to grow and establish themselves in the soil before the plant has to worry about producing leaves or flowers in the spring.
Learn How to Care For Your Bare Root Plants
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