Why You Should Buy Bareroot Trees

If you don’t know about bareroot trees, you’re missing out on one of the best bargains in gardening. Buying bareroot is a cost-effective way to give you a jump start on the planting season.

The bareroot process begins when the weather turns cold and dormant saplings can be dug up from the soil to be stored through the winter and then shipped to a nursery, such as Oakridge. Plants typically go dormant somewhere between October 1 and November 10 in our area. Bareroot trees have typically been growing for about two years before they’re dug up, which means that each one will be ready to thrive once it’s tucked into new soil.

Bareroot trees are sold only for a limited amount of time, from about the end of March until the middle of May. Bareroot nursery stock is purchased early and can be planted as soon as frost has left the ground. We’re able to offer a large selection of bareroot trees and shrubs because they take up less space at the nursery and are easier to handle.

Why You Should Buy Bareroot

Better Growth

Bareroot trees can take off quickly once they are re-planted because their roots don’t have to transition from container soil to your local soil. These trees will also come with a larger root mass. According to Cornell University, a bareroot tree contains 200 percent more roots than the same tree if it’s dug with soil intact and wrapped in burlap. The difference in root density is due to the harvesting equipment. Bareroot trees can potentially retain a greater portion of their original root system.

Easy Handling

Since they’re not encumbered by heavy soil, bareroot trees are pretty lightweight. This makes it easier to handle and transport the trees. Bareroot trees are easier to carry and maneuver into place. The planting window is smaller, however. Bareroot trees must be planted during dormancy, before the buds break. If you can’t plant them immediately, bare-root trees need to be stored in a cold, shaded place. (The most important thing is to not to let the roots dry out.)

Helps the Environment

Buying trees and shrubs bare root is environmentally friendly. With no plastic pots, bareroot trees and shrubs result in less pollution and their lighter weight results in less fuel consumption during shipping. It’s a win for the environment and you!

Lower Prices

Bareroot trees cost less than potted trees. The savings comes from reduced freight and shipping costs, as well as the labor savings from not yet potting the trees. Once they begin to leaf out, bare-root trees from early spring will need to be potted in containers and set outside. Potting the plants, of course, adds to the cost.