A bare-root tree arrives without a container of soil protecting its roots. That makes the period between delivery and planting part of the job. Leaving the roots exposed while you decide where to dig can undo otherwise careful preparation.
The Royal Horticultural Society’s tree-planting guidance discusses prompt planting and temporary heeling-in when adverse conditions delay the work. Its seasonal calendar is written for the UK; use local advice for your climate and the particular species.
Prepare before opening the bundle
Confirm the intended site, planting permissions and any underground services before digging. Check the nursery’s instructions and have the necessary tools and water available. Keep the label with the plant so similar-looking dormant trees do not lose their identities.
Inspect the delivery promptly and contact the supplier if roots appear damaged or the contents do not match the order. Take photographs for the discussion without leaving the roots uncovered for a prolonged session.
Protect the roots from drying wind and sun while arranging the planting. Follow the supplier’s advice on wrapping, moistening and any pre-planting soak. Do not improvise an indefinite soak or assume that standing water is always better than a protected moist root system.
Have a delay plan
Frozen or waterlogged ground may make immediate planting unsuitable. Ask the nursery or local horticultural adviser how to hold the stock safely, including whether temporary heeling-in is appropriate and where it can be done.
For a small planting project, assign someone to check the stored plants rather than assuming another volunteer has done it. Record the arrival date and where each labelled tree is being held.
- Keep roots protected until the planting area is ready.
- Use the correct planting depth and method for the species.
- Follow the recommended watering and support arrangements.
- Check the young tree after planting, especially when conditions change.
A bare-root delivery is not a reason to rush into an unsuitable hole. Good preparation gives you a workable sequence: identify the plant, protect the roots, assess the ground and plant correctly. The care taken during that short handover from nursery to site matters as much as the appearance of the finished planting.