How Should You Properly Store Bare Root Trees Before Planting?
Storing bare root trees properly is a crucial step in ensuring their health and vitality before planting. Whether you’ve just purchased these dormant trees or are preparing them for transplanting, understanding the best storage practices can make all the difference between a thriving garden and a disappointing loss. Bare root trees, stripped of soil and sold with exposed roots, require special care to maintain moisture and prevent damage during their dormant phase.
This method of tree delivery and storage offers many advantages, including easier transport and often lower costs compared to balled-and-burlapped trees. However, because the roots are exposed, they are more vulnerable to drying out and physical harm. Proper storage techniques help preserve the delicate root systems and keep the trees in optimal condition until they can be planted in their permanent location.
In the following sections, you will discover essential tips and guidelines that will help you confidently store your bare root trees. From selecting the right environment to managing moisture levels, these insights will prepare you to give your trees the best start possible, ensuring they flourish once planted.
Preparing Bare Root Trees for Storage
Proper preparation is essential to maintain the health and viability of bare root trees during storage. Begin by carefully inspecting the roots for any damage or broken sections. Trim away damaged roots with clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent rot and disease. Avoid excessive pruning; only remove what is necessary to maintain root health.
Moisture management is critical. Before storage, soak the roots in water for several hours—typically 6 to 12 hours—to fully hydrate the tree. This helps prevent desiccation during the storage period. After soaking, gently shake off excess water without drying the roots completely.
Next, wrap the roots in a moisture-retentive material such as damp burlap, sphagnum moss, or shredded newspaper. This wrapping helps maintain humidity around the roots, minimizing moisture loss. Avoid plastic wrap directly on the roots, as this can cause mold growth due to poor air circulation.
Store the wrapped roots in a cool, dark environment with good ventilation. Ideal temperatures range between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C), which slows metabolism without freezing the roots. A basement, garage, or refrigerated storage unit can serve this purpose. Check the moisture level of the wrapping periodically and mist or re-soak as needed to keep the roots from drying out.
Storage Techniques for Different Climate Conditions
The storage approach for bare root trees varies depending on your local climate and available facilities. Understanding these differences can help ensure your trees remain viable until planting.
In cold climates with freezing winters, it is often best to store bare root trees in a controlled refrigeration unit or a root cellar where temperatures remain just above freezing. Avoid freezing temperatures below 28°F (-2°C) to prevent root damage. If refrigeration is unavailable, burying the wrapped roots in a trench insulated with mulch can provide temperature moderation.
In mild or warm climates, maintaining adequate moisture and cool temperatures can be more challenging. Use shaded, ventilated areas or cooler indoor spaces to prevent heat stress. Frequent misting or re-wrapping with damp material is necessary to avoid root drying. Alternatively, temporary planting in a shaded nursery bed with loose, moist soil can keep roots healthy until permanent planting.
A summary of storage recommendations by climate type is provided below:
| Climate | Recommended Storage Environment | Temperature Range | Humidity/Moisture Management | Additional Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (Freezing Winters) | Refrigeration or root cellar | 32°F – 40°F (0°C – 4°C) | Wrap roots with damp material; check moisture regularly | Insulate with mulch if burying; avoid freezing roots |
| Mild | Shaded, cool indoor area or ventilated garage | 40°F – 60°F (4°C – 15°C) | Frequent misting; keep wrapping damp | Temporary planting in nursery beds is an option |
| Warm | Cool basement or shaded, ventilated space | 50°F – 65°F (10°C – 18°C) | High humidity; daily moisture checks and re-wrapping | Avoid heat exposure and direct sunlight |
Handling and Monitoring During Storage
Throughout the storage period, it is important to regularly monitor the condition of the bare root trees. Inspect roots for signs of drying, mold, or rot, and adjust moisture levels accordingly. If roots begin to dry, re-soak and re-wrap them promptly.
Maintain consistent temperatures to avoid stress caused by temperature fluctuations. Sudden warming or cooling can trigger premature bud break or dormancy loss, reducing the tree’s chances of successful transplantation.
When removing trees from storage for planting, handle the roots gently to prevent damage. Avoid exposing roots to dry air or direct sunlight. If necessary, soak the roots again before planting to rehydrate them fully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Bare Root Trees
Improper storage can severely reduce the success of bare root tree planting. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Allowing roots to dry out: Even brief exposure to dry air can damage roots. Always keep roots moist.
- Storing at improper temperatures: Too warm or freezing temperatures can harm roots and trigger premature growth or dormancy loss.
- Using plastic wrap directly on roots: This traps moisture and promotes mold growth.
- Neglecting regular checks: Failing to monitor moisture and root condition can lead to unnoticed deterioration.
- Stacking trees improperly: Overcrowding or compressing roots can cause mechanical damage.
Adhering to proper storage protocols ensures that bare root trees remain healthy and ready for successful planting when the optimal season arrives.
Preparing Bare Root Trees for Storage
Proper preparation is crucial to ensure bare root trees remain healthy and viable during storage. Begin by inspecting the roots carefully to remove any damaged or broken roots using clean, sharp pruning shears. This helps prevent disease and encourages healthy growth after planting.
Next, hydrate the roots thoroughly by soaking them in water for several hours, ideally between 4 to 12 hours depending on the species. This rehydrates the roots after the drying period during harvest and reduces transplant shock.
After soaking, gently shake off excess water but avoid drying the roots completely. The roots should remain moist but not waterlogged. Wrap the root system in damp sphagnum moss, burlap, or a similar moisture-retaining material to maintain humidity. Avoid plastic wraps directly on roots as they can trap too much moisture, leading to rot.
Optimal Storage Conditions for Bare Root Trees
Maintaining the right environment is essential for preserving bare root trees during storage. Key factors include temperature, humidity, and airflow:
| Factor | Recommended Range | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 33°F to 40°F (1°C to 4°C) | Prevents root desiccation and dormancy break |
| Humidity | 85% to 95% | Keeps roots moist without promoting rot |
| Airflow | Moderate ventilation | Prevents mold and fungal growth |
Store the trees in a cool, dark place such as a basement, garage, or root cellar. Avoid exposure to freezing temperatures or heat, which can damage the roots or prematurely break dormancy. Check the moisture level of the wrapping material regularly, misting if it begins to dry out.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage Techniques
The duration of storage impacts how bare root trees should be managed:
- Short-Term Storage (Up to 1 Week)
- Keep roots wrapped in moist material.
- Store in a cool, shaded location.
- Avoid disturbing the roots unnecessarily.
- Ideal for trees purchased close to planting time.
- Long-Term Storage (More than 1 Week)
- Store in a refrigeration unit or cold room maintaining the recommended temperature and humidity.
- Monitor moisture daily and rehydrate roots if necessary.
- Regularly inspect for signs of mold, rot, or drying.
- Consider “heeling in” if planting is delayed:
- Dig a trench in shaded soil.
- Place roots in the trench, spreading them out.
- Cover roots completely with soil or mulch.
- Water thoroughly to maintain moisture.
Handling and Monitoring During Storage
Careful handling minimizes damage and stress to bare root trees during storage. Always lift trees by the root ball or the base of the trunk to avoid breaking roots or bark.
During storage, perform frequent inspections for:
- Signs of mold or fungal growth on roots or wrapping material.
- Drying out or shriveling of roots.
- Soft, mushy areas indicating rot.
- Early leaf or bud swelling, which signals dormancy break and may require immediate planting.
Maintain a log to record storage conditions and any maintenance actions. This practice helps identify optimal storage practices for future seasons.
Planting Considerations After Storage
Once ready to plant, remove the trees from storage carefully, unwrapping the roots without damaging them. If roots appear dry, soak again in water for 1 to 4 hours before planting.
Inspect the root system and prune any damaged or excessively long roots to encourage healthy new growth. Plant as soon as possible to reduce stress and maximize establishment success.
Ensure planting holes are wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots without bending or crowding. Backfill with native soil mixed with organic matter to improve root-to-soil contact and nutrient availability.
Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent soil moisture during the establishment phase. Mulching around the base helps conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.