What are the advantages and disadvantages of bare-root trees and shrubs?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of bare-root trees and shrubs?
As the name suggests, bare-root trees and shrubs have no soil around their roots. Bare-root nursery stock is dug in late fall, placed in cold storage, then shipped to garden centers or gardeners in early spring. Bare-root trees and shrubs should be dormant upon receipt of shipment or purchase. Disadvantages of bare-root trees and shrubs are the length of the planting season and size. Bare-root plant material should be planted in early spring before it begins to leaf out. Bare-root deciduous trees are generally available up to 8 feet in height. Evergreens are usually less than 2 feet tall. Bare-root trees and shrubs, however, are the most economical type of nursery stock. They are usually the best choice when purchasing large quantities of trees and shrubs for windbreaks or hedges.
Learn more about planting bare root trees in this article: How to Plant Bare Root Plants
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