Ask a Master Gardener

[Lee Borgersen]

                                  Ask a Master Gardener:

 ...
 Get bare-root plants in ground immediately

Q: I ordered bare-root shrubs and trees through the annual St. Louis County native tree and shrub sale. I’ve never planted a bare-root plant. What can you tell me about how to plant them?

A: Bare-root plants are exactly what the name suggests. These plants are typically dug from the fields in the fall and placed in cold storage during the winter or dug in early spring and shipped shortly thereafter while still dormant. The soil is removed, which saves on shipping, making bare-root plants an economical choice.

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When you receive your bare-root plants, it’s important to be prepared to get them in the ground promptly. Choose a planting location in advance according to the plant’s requirements for light, soil and water. It is vital when handling or transporting bare-root stock before planting to keep the roots moist and protected from sun and wind at all times.

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The day of planting, examine the plant and remove any diseased or damaged roots or branches. Many experts recommend soaking the roots for an hour or two before planting, or even as long as overnight. Prepare your hole to accommodate the root system without crowding or circling. The plant, whether tree, shrub or perennial, would prefer to be planted slightly high, versus too deep, as the roots require oxygen. For trees, look for the root flare — the place the trunk widens just above the root system. The base of the root flare should be at the final soil surface.

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Trees should be centered in the hole with the largest branches facing southwest. This orients the tree to its planting position in the field. Backfill over the roots with soil until the hole is three-quarters full. Tamp the soil and fill the hole with water. This will help avoid any air pockets. Finish filling the hole with soil, and then water thoroughly. Keep your new shrubs and trees moist until they are well-established. Mulching the base of the plant will help, but keep the mulch from touching the trunk.

[deadeye]

We planted 16 bare root apple/plum trees last spring.  All but one are budding out this spring.  I ordered another 18 for this year.  Starting a second orchard.  The white plastic sleeves prevented rabbit, mice and sun damage while the wire cages kept the deer away.

[Lee Borgersen]

  Well, it looks to me as we have our own in- house resident Master Gardener here at MNO

[glenn57]

Well, it looks to me as we have our own in- house resident Master Gardener here at MNO

I believe a tree expert is called an arborist!!!!!!! but judging on his past pictures I would consider deadeye a master gardener too!!!!!!!!!