Bare root plants offer a compelling alternative garden plant source. Bare root perennials and shrubs come from established plants that are dug up after they have entered their period of dormancy, stored without soil and shipped when the plant is ready to be planted in the ground. They have healthy roots and buds and are a more mature plant that has gone through at least one season.
Bare root plants are more affordable than potted plants because they are shipped without any container and excessive soil therefore have less weight and lower shipping rates. These cost savings are passed onto the buyer.
Root systems of bare-root perennials are often more healthy than potted plants. Without the container there is no root circling or binding, the roots are developed naturally allowing the plant to establish themselves more easily in the new environment. Plus, bare roots are much easier to handle than a heavy pot full of dirt, and reducing the use of plastic containers is good for the environment.
Commercial growers of container plants know that buyers want the best-looking plants. This often involves commercial growers using gimmicks to keep young potted plants looking good. A bare root plant does not have any foliage, just roots, and is not subjected to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers used to look healthy.
When delivered, soak bare roots in a bucket of water for 4 to 6 hours. This will help to reinvigorate the roots and help regain their flexibility. After soaking, check the roots and remove any damaged roots. Dig a hole that is two times the size of the roots (width and depth) so the roots will fit in the hole without much bending or twisting.
When planting, keep the crown of the plant above the soil level and begin to fill the hole with fresh compost, watering a few times to allow the soil to settle. When the hole is filled, mulch the area around the roots (careful not to let mulch touch the crown) to help the soil from drying out too quickly as well as help keep the soil at an even temperature.
Dutchgrown.com, Waltersgardens.com, and Greenwoodnursery.com are a few online sellers of bare root plants. Be sure to check buyer reviews before ordering from any online seller. Also note that commercial growers have coined a term “bare root liner plant.” Please note that these are immature plants sourced from seed, cuttings or tissue cultures as opposed to bare root plants that are from established plants that are in their dormant stage.
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