Bare root plants, also known as field-grown plants, are plants that have been grown in a field or nursery and then dug up and sold without soil around their roots. These plants can be a great way to add new plants to your garden, but they can also be more delicate than container-grown plants and are more susceptible to damage if not properly cared for. In this article, we'll discuss some common mistakes that can cause Bare root plants not to survive and how to avoid them.
- Not planting the plant immediately: Once you receive your Bare root plants, it's important to plant them as soon as possible. The roots of Bare root plants can dry out quickly, and if they are not planted in a timely manner, they may not survive. If you can't plant them right away, keep the roots moist by wrapping them in a damp cloth or burlap.
- Not preparing the soil properly: Before planting, make sure the soil is well-draining and of the right pH for the plant. If the soil is too heavy or too acidic, the plant may struggle to establish itself. It's also important to amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or peat moss to help the plant establish itself.
- Not providing enough water: Bare root plants need to be watered frequently in order to establish themselves. Make sure to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, until the plant is established. Once the plant is established, you can reduce the frequency of watering.
- Not providing enough light: Most Bare root plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Make sure to plant them in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If the plant is not getting enough light, it may struggle to establish itself.
- Not pruning or staking: Some Bare root plants, such as trees and shrubs, may need to be pruned or staked to help them establish themselves. Make sure to prune or stake the plant as needed to ensure it stays upright and doesn't break under the weight of its own branches.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your Bare root plants survive and thrive in your garden. Remember to plant them immediately, prepare the soil properly, provide enough water and light, and prune or stake as needed. With a little bit of care, your Bare root plants will establish themselves and provide you with years of beauty and enjoyment.
