Perennials
Planting Videos
TN Nursery offers real, live and easy planting videos.
Planting bare root plants involves a few crucial steps to ensure they establish well and thrive. Bare root plants are sold without soil around their roots and are typically dormant, making them easier to transport and plant.
- The best time to plant bare root plants is during their dormant season, typically in early spring or late fall.
- Before planting, soak the roots in water for several hours (4-24 hours) to rehydrate them. Avoid soaking for more than 24 hours to prevent root damage.
- Dig a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots without crowding or bending them. Typically, the hole should be twice as wide as the root spread and deep enough to place the plant at the same depth it was grown in the nursery.
- Create a small mound of soil at the bottom of the hole to help spread the roots evenly around it.
- Place the plant on top of the mound, spreading the roots out naturally. Ensure the plant is upright and at the correct depth. The crown of the plant (where roots meet the stem) should be at or just above the soil level for most plants.
- Fill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Avoid packing the soil too tightly.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Add more soil if needed after watering.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, during the first growing season. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.