Video:Planting Bare Root Seedlings

SHARE ON                

Transcript:Planting Bare Root Seedlings

When it comes to planting a Bare Root Seedling, it's important to make sure you give your seedling the right start in life.

When to Plant Bare Root Seedlings

So plant the seedling as soon as you get it. Don't let the tree roots dry out. The best time to plant is a cool and cloudy day, while the seedling is dormant. Warmer zones can plant almost all year except summer. In cooler zones, plant in late winter or early spring once the ground has thawed.

Where to Plant Bare Root Seedlings

Make sure you are planting your tree seedlings at the correct depth to ensure a good start. If you plant it too deep, the roots may not get enough oxygen and the tree will be more exposed to potential diseases from the soil. If you plant it too shallow, the roots may dry out. It is also less stable and has a greater chance of falling over.

How to plant Your Bare Root Seedling

To plant your Bare Root Seedling successfully:

• Use a planting bar to create a hole by inserting the bar into the soil and pushing in one direction to create hole.
• Insert seedling to proper depth.
• Insert planting bar into the ground outside of the planting hole.
• Push soil towards the planting hole by pushing the planting bar back and forth.
• Restore soil surface by tamping around the seedling.

Watering Your Bare Root Seedling

After you've planted your bare root tree seedling, you want to make sure it will get enough water and flourish. But watering too often can make the roots grow shallowly and the tree will not be as sturdy and able to resist strong winds.

Water deeply every 7-10 days and let the ground dry out before the next watering. The roots will grow farther down and will later have easier time finding water if needed.

Caring for Bare Root Seedlings

Protection from animals is important. Put a mesh tube around the tree or use repellents to save the seedling from animals such as deer and rabbits.

The first few years are especially critical for establishing a healthy tree. So watch out for signs of disease, pests or poor nutrition. These could be yellowing leaves, wilting foliage, holes in bark, branches or leaves, or oozing sap.

If you see any indications of poor health, take steps to remedy the problem as soon as you can. And watch your seedling grow into a robust yet beautiful tree.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit About.com.