Why Plant Bare Root Trees During the Dormant Season?

 What Are the Advantages of Bare Root Tree Planting?

Tree planting is one of the most satisfying things any homeowner or gardener can do. Trees don't just look great on your property; they're also ecologically beneficial, with good air quality, shade, and wildlife habitat. While there are many ways to plant trees, many of them are planted bare root, and bare root is the most practical and economical method when they're still dormant.

Bare root trees are plowed from the nursery field and delivered without soil surrounding their roots.

These trees are sold from late fall through early spring when the tree is dormant. Bare root planting trees this winter is excellent for several reasons, from economical to root growth.

This is an article where we'll discuss why winter is the best time to plant bare root trees and why it's great

1. Improved Root Establishment. This is the best part about planting bare-root trees in the fall when they are not actively growing, which encourages roots to grow well. Trees are not increasing in winter dormancy; the tree is sleeping, and the energy goes to building a solid root system rather than supporting the growth of new shoots or leaves.

If planted at this time, the roots will get an uninterrupted time to make a home in the soil before the busy growing season. Bare root trees planted in early spring or late fall give the roots a fast chance to acclimate to their new home and establish a more firm base from which to grow over time. This early establishment lets the tree begin the growing season with a healthy root system and more accessible water and nutrient absorption when the new growth starts.

2. Cost-Effective Option. Bare root trees are typically cheaper than container or balled-and-burlapped varieties. Nurseries can price bare root trees less because they don't need potting soil or huge containers. This makes bare-root trees a great choice if you want to plant several trees or create a big backyard on a budget. Planting bare root trees during the off-season is even more cost-effective. They have a shorter shipping window (usually late fall-early spring), and the trees sell for less. Besides the savings in cost, when bare root trees are planted, they will have a higher probability of success and won't require replanting or future costly repairs.

3. Faster Growth After Planting. When you plant trees that are not in full bloom, they are quicker to grow and establish themselves once the season starts. The tree is asleep, so it will have less transplant shock and focus on getting new roots. When the weather is warm enough, and the tree is putting itself out of dormancy, the tree will "wake up" in the new spot and can begin vigorous growth. The growing season can strain the plant for warmer-season trees, trying to figure out where to live while supporting leaf and shoot growth. By planting in the winter months, you give the tree all of the season to get root-forming, and the tree is more geared up to enjoy the growing season when the season arrives.

4. Reduced Transplant Shock. Transplant shock is when a tree or plant is stressed by the transplant from another environment. This can be from soil disturbance, root rot, or environmental stress. Bare root trees can also be more susceptible to transplant shock than container trees, but they are planted in the fall when it is not in full sun, and the shock is diminished significantly. If planting bare root trees in winter or early spring, they experience fewer stressors. Because the weather is cold and the plant isn't actively growing, the trees don't suffer the stress of new leaves or flowers as they would if planted during the season. It is less stressful, allowing the tree to adapt better to its new home and start growing roots without all the added pressure of dealing with new growth.

5. Greater Soil Temperatures to Support Root Growth. Soil tends to be more relaxed in the winter, which is perfect for root growth. Roots don't dry out or get scalded in the soil, which can happen during hot summers. Bare root trees will settle into the soil more efficiently in excellent conditions, grow healthy, and become established more quickly. The soil also tends to be moist in the winter months, which can also be advantageous for new trees. More relaxed, wet soil is needed so the tree's roots adjust to their new surroundings without threatening to die from sudden dehydration. This moisture moistens the tree's roots until they set root.

6. Less Competition for Resources. The second reason for planting bare-root trees in the winter is less competition for water, sunlight, and nutrients. Many other plants are in dormancy or a reduced growth phase during this period, so your new tree isn't competing for resources. This allows the tree to settle in better and not have to battle with other plants for resources — planting in spring or summer, by contrast, is a battle with other growing plants for water and nutrients, and it will take longer for your new tree to establish itself.

7. Easier Planting Conditions. This fallow season is usually a better time to work with the soil. Cooler, less frequent rain ensures planting holes are more accessible to dig and assemble without worrying about wet, clay soil or too much dry weather. You'll get a more enjoyable planting experience in general and less risk of improperly planting your bare root trees. Since bare-root trees are soil-free, they are also lighter and easier to plant.

This simplifies the process if you're growing a lot of trees. Conclusion Planting bare root trees during the winter months is an investment that can be made for several reasons ranging from savings to root growth. Because of the lower competition, lower temperatures in the soil, and less transplant shock, gardeners are treated to healthier, more vigorous trees that set up fast and live on. Bare root trees in the fall, even if you're a seasoned landscaper or a novice gardener, are an innovative, efficient way to improve your garden and be part of a healthier, more sustainable future.