Why Bare Root Trees Are the Smartest Planting Choice for Your Landscape
If you’re planning to add trees to your property, you may be debating whether to go with bare root or potted trees. While potted trees might seem like the convenient option, bare root trees offer some incredible advantages that make them the superior choice for many gardeners, homesteaders, and landscapers. Let’s dive into why bare root trees might be the smartest planting choice for your landscape.
1. Cost-Effective Without Compromising Quality
Bare root trees are notably more affordable than their potted counterparts. This is because they skip the expenses associated with soil, containers, and shipping bulk. If you’re planning a large project, such as planting an orchard or filling out a food forest, the savings can be significant. Plus, the lower cost doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing quality—bare root trees are just as healthy and viable as potted trees when handled correctly.
2. Easier Transition with Less Transplant Shock
One of the most common reasons plants fail after transplanting is stress, often caused by the disruption of roots when moving from a pot to the soil. Bare root trees are dormant when planted, allowing their root systems to adapt more seamlessly to their new environment. They avoid the root disturbance associated with potted trees and recover faster, giving them a head start in establishing themselves.
3. Rapid Establishment and Growth
Bare root trees tend to grow more quickly after planting because their roots aren’t constrained by the pot’s shape or size. With no circling or bound roots to untangle, bare root trees can immediately spread their roots into the surrounding soil, accessing nutrients and water more efficiently. This leads to faster establishment and healthier growth over the long term.
4. Lightweight and Easier to Handle
One of the most practical benefits of bare root trees is how lightweight and manageable they are. Without heavy pots and extra soil to lug around, you’ll find them much easier to transport and plant. This is especially helpful if you’re working alone, planting multiple trees, or accessing hard-to-reach areas.
5. Wider Selection of Tree Varieties
When shopping for trees, you’ll often find a larger selection of species and sizes available in bare root form compared to potted trees. This is because nurseries can stock and ship more bare root trees in less space. Whether you’re looking for a specific fruit tree for your orchard, a nitrogen-fixing species for your permaculture design, or native trees to enhance your landscape, bare root options provide a wealth of choices.
6. Reduced Environmental Impact
Bare root trees are a more sustainable choice in several ways. Without plastic pots, they reduce waste and minimize the environmental toll of manufacturing. Their lightweight nature also reduces shipping emissions. For gardeners and growers committed to regenerative practices, this makes bare root trees an eco-friendly option.
7. A Seasonal Opportunity
Bare root trees are typically available during the dormant season (late fall to early spring), when trees are naturally better suited to transplanting. This aligns perfectly with many gardeners’ schedules, giving the trees ample time to establish roots before the growing season begins.
Tips for Planting Bare Root Trees Successfully
To make the most of your bare root trees, follow these key steps:
- Keep Roots Moist: Until planting, keep the roots damp and covered. Avoid letting them dry out.
- Plant Quickly: Bare root trees should be planted soon after purchase, ideally within a few days.
- Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots comfortably and deep enough so the tree is planted at the same depth it grew in the nursery.
- Backfill Carefully: Use the soil you dug out to backfill the hole, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets.
- Water Well: Give your tree a good soak after planting, then keep the soil consistently moist as it establishes.
The Bottom Line
Bare root trees are an excellent investment in your landscape, offering affordability, adaptability, and sustainability. Whether you’re planting a single tree or creating a diverse forest garden, bare root options provide a practical and ecological solution. By choosing bare roots, you’re not just saving money—you’re setting your trees (and your landscape) up for long-term success.
Ready to start planting? Explore our selection of high-quality bare root trees and take the first step toward a thriving landscape. 🌱