Bare Root Plants: What They Are & How to Plant Them Successfully

Buying a plant without a pot or soil may seem unusual at first. But bare root plants are a practical and often economical way to add trees, shrubs, perennials, strawberries, and other plants to your garden.

Instead of arriving in a container filled with growing media, bare root plants are shipped with the soil removed from around their roots. Many are shipped while dormant, which makes them easier to transport and handle during the appropriate planting season.

The key to success is simple: keep the roots from drying out, plant at the correct depth, spread the roots naturally, and provide consistent moisture after planting.

In this guide, we'll explain what bare root plants are, how to handle them when they arrive, how to plant them correctly, common mistakes to avoid, and how to give your new plants the best start.

What Are Bare Root Plants?

Bare root plants are live plants sold and shipped without soil surrounding their roots.

They are commonly dug while dormant and prepared for shipping with their roots protected by moist packing material. Bare root plants can include:

• Fruit trees
• Ornamental trees
• Shrubs
• Roses
• Strawberries
• Perennial flowers
• Some vines
• Certain indoor and tropical plants

Because there is no heavy soil-filled container to ship, bare root plants can be easier and less expensive to transport than many container-grown plants.

Bare root plants also take up less space during shipping and can be planted directly into garden beds, raised beds, or suitable containers depending on the plant.

Why Are Plants Sold Bare Root?

Bare root shipping has several practical advantages.

Easier Shipping

Without a large container and wet growing media, the plant is lighter and more compact.

Often More Economical

Bare root plants can be an economical option, especially when purchasing multiple plants. Extension horticulture guidance also identifies bare root stock as one of the more economical forms of nursery stock.

Easier to Inspect the Roots

Because the roots are exposed, you can inspect them before planting.

Healthy roots should generally be firm and flexible rather than dry, brittle, mushy, or foul-smelling.

Good for Dormant Plants

Many trees, shrubs, roses, and perennial plants are shipped while dormant. A dormant plant may have little or no visible top growth, but that does not necessarily mean it is dead.

This is one of the most important things for beginners to understand about bare root plants.

Bare Root Does Not Mean Dead

One of the most common beginner mistakes is judging a bare root plant by its appearance.

A plant may arrive:

• Without leaves
• With very little top growth
• Dormant
• Recently pruned
• Smaller than the mature plant shown in a listing photo

Depending on the species and season, this can be completely normal.

For example, Grow It Depot's current bare-root Quinault strawberry listings describe plants as dormant and ready to establish after planting.

Always check the product description and planting instructions for the specific plant before deciding whether its appearance is normal.

What to Do When Your Bare Root Plant Arrives

Timing matters with bare root plants.

Ideally, prepare your planting location before the plant arrives so you can plant it promptly.

Step 1: Open the Package Carefully

Remove the plant carefully from its packaging.

Avoid pulling, bending, or breaking the roots unnecessarily.

Step 2: Inspect the Roots

Look for roots that are:

• Firm
• Flexible
• Moist
• Free from obvious rot
• Free from major damage

Dry, brittle, mushy, or badly damaged roots can indicate a problem.

If a plant arrives with significant damage, photograph it and contact the seller according to their plant-order policy.

Step 3: Keep the Roots Moist

This is one of the most important rules of bare-root planting.

Never allow exposed roots to sit in direct sun or drying wind.

Keep the roots protected and moist until you're ready to plant. Iowa State University Extension recommends keeping the packing material damp and storing plants in a cool, non-freezing location if planting must be delayed.

Important:

Moist does not mean soaking wet.

The packing material should be damp rather than dripping wet.

Can You Store a Bare Root Plant Before Planting?

Yes, but delaying planting should generally be avoided when possible.

If you cannot plant immediately:

1. Keep the roots protected.
2. Keep the packing material moist.
3. Store the plant somewhere cool.
4. Protect it from freezing.
5. Keep it away from direct sunlight and drying wind.
6. Plant as soon as practical.

For many bare root trees, shrubs, and perennials, planting while dormant and before active growth begins is recommended. Exact timing depends on the plant and your climate.

Should You Soak Bare Root Roots Before Planting?

In many cases, yes.

Before planting, roots can be placed in clean water to rehydrate them.

For bare root perennials, Iowa State University Extension recommends soaking the roots for about 30–60 minutes before planting. Other extension guidance for woody plants commonly recommends around 1–2 hours, depending on the plant.

Important: Follow the Plant's Instructions

Do not assume every bare root plant should be soaked for the same amount of time.

Some plants have specialized roots or shipping instructions.

As a general rule, rehydrate the roots without leaving them submerged for excessively long periods.

How to Plant Bare Root Plants Successfully

Once the roots are hydrated and your planting area is ready, follow these steps.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Before digging, check the plant's requirements for:

• Sunlight
• Soil type
• Drainage
• Mature size
• Hardiness zone
• Spacing
• Water requirements

Do not choose a planting location based only on how the plant looks when it arrives.

Think about the mature plant.

A small bare root tree can eventually become a large tree, while a small strawberry plant may spread through runners.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Remove weeds, grass, rocks, and large debris from the planting area.

The soil should allow the roots to spread naturally.

Avoid creating a small pocket of highly amended soil surrounded by poor native soil. For many landscape plants, using the soil removed from the planting hole as backfill is recommended unless the specific plant has different requirements.

Step 3: Dig a Wide Planting Hole

The hole should be wide enough to accommodate the entire root system without forcing roots into tight circles.

For many bare root plants, extension recommendations suggest making the hole approximately 2 to 2.5 times wider than the root spread.

The exact depth depends on the plant.

Width is important because roots should be spread naturally rather than bent sharply around the planting hole.

Step 4: Build a Small Soil Mound

For many bare root trees, shrubs, and perennials, a small mound or cone of soil in the center of the hole can help position the plant.

Place the roots over the mound and spread them outward.

This encourages the roots to grow naturally into the surrounding soil.

Step 5: Spread the Roots Naturally

This is one of the biggest differences between planting a container plant and planting a bare root plant.

Do not:

• Twist the roots into a ball
• Force long roots into a narrow hole
• Fold roots sharply upward
• Pack roots into a cramped space

Instead, gently spread them outward and downward.

If a root is badly damaged, remove the damaged portion with a clean cut.

Step 6: Position the Plant at the Correct Depth

Planting depth is critical.

A common mistake is planting bare root plants too deeply.

For trees and shrubs, the root flare or point where the main roots meet the stem should generally be positioned at or slightly above the surrounding soil level, depending on the species.

For perennials, the correct depth varies by plant.

For example, some perennial crowns should sit close to soil level, while certain plants have specific planting-depth requirements.

Always follow the planting instructions for the individual plant.

Step 7: Backfill Carefully

Begin filling the hole with the original soil.

Work the soil gently around and between the roots.

Avoid leaving large air pockets around the roots.

Do not aggressively compact the soil, however. The goal is good root-to-soil contact without crushing the soil structure.

Step 8: Water Thoroughly

Water the plant immediately after planting.

A thorough first watering helps settle the soil around the roots and improves root-to-soil contact.

After that, monitor the soil regularly.

Newly planted bare root plants need consistent moisture while their roots establish.

Step 9: Add Mulch

A layer of mulch can help:

• Reduce moisture loss
• Moderate soil temperature
• Reduce weed competition
• Protect the soil surface

Keep mulch away from direct contact with the plant's stem or trunk.

A thick pile of mulch against the trunk can create moisture and disease problems.

Bare Root Planting Quick Checklist

Step	What to Do
1	Open the package carefully
2	Inspect the roots
3	Keep roots moist and protected
4	Soak according to plant instructions
5	Prepare the planting location
6	Dig a wide planting hole
7	Create a soil mound if appropriate
8	Spread roots naturally
9	Set the plant at the correct depth
10	Backfill gently
11	Water thoroughly
12	Mulch around the root zone
13	Monitor moisture during establishment

How Often Should You Water a Newly Planted Bare Root Plant?

There is no single watering schedule that works for every bare root plant.

Watering depends on:

• Plant species
• Soil type
• Weather
• Temperature
• Rainfall
• Plant size
• Planting location
• Drainage

The goal is to keep the root zone from becoming excessively dry while avoiding constantly waterlogged soil.

Check the soil around the plant regularly rather than watering automatically every day.

Iowa State University Extension recommends checking newly planted plants regularly and watering when the surrounding soil becomes dry.

A Simple Beginner Rule

Check the soil → water when needed → allow excess water to drain → check again.

Do Bare Root Plants Need Fertilizer Right Away?

Usually, fertilizer should not be the first priority.

Newly planted roots are sensitive, and excessive fertilizer can damage young roots.

Iowa State University Extension recommends waiting at least four weeks before fertilizing newly planted bare root perennials, unless the plant-specific instructions say otherwise.

Your first priorities should be:

1. Correct planting depth
2. Good root-to-soil contact
3. Proper watering
4. Appropriate sunlight
5. Weed control
6. Mulching

Once the plant begins establishing, follow the fertilizer requirements for that specific species.

Bare Root Plants vs. Container-Grown Plants

Feature	Bare Root	Container-Grown
Soil included	No	Yes
Shipping weight	Usually lower	Usually higher
Plant appearance on arrival	May be dormant or leafless	Usually actively growing
Root visibility	Easy to inspect	Mostly hidden by soil
Planting timing	Often tied to dormant season	Usually more flexible
Initial handling	Requires extra care	Generally easier
Root drying risk	High if exposed	Lower
Common examples	Trees, roses, strawberries, perennials	Trees, shrubs, flowers, houseplants

Neither form is automatically better for every gardener.

The important thing is to understand how the plant arrives and what it needs after delivery.

Which Plants Are Commonly Sold Bare Root?

Bare root availability varies by nursery, season, climate, and plant type.

Common examples include:

Fruit Plants

• Strawberries
• Apples
• Pears
• Plums
• Cherries
• Other fruiting plants

Landscape Plants

• Roses
• Trees
• Shrubs
• Vines

Perennials

• Peonies
• Daylilies
• Certain flowering perennials

Grow It Depot currently carries several bare-root plant listings, including multiple strawberry varieties and other live plants.

Growing Bare Root Strawberries

Strawberries are one of the easiest examples for beginners to understand when it comes to bare root planting.

Grow It Depot currently lists bare-root strawberry varieties including Quinault, Cabot, Jewel, Allstar, and Honeoye.

Strawberries generally prefer:

• Full sun
• Well-draining soil
• Consistent moisture
• Adequate spacing
• Good air circulation

One important detail is the crown.

Do Not Bury the Strawberry Crown

The crown is the central growing point between the roots and leaves.

It should generally be positioned at the appropriate soil level rather than buried deeply.

Planting too deeply can create problems with crown health, while planting too shallowly can expose roots.

Always check the variety-specific planting instructions.

A Grow It Depot Bare Root Example

For gardeners interested in starting a strawberry patch, Grow It Depot's Quinault Everbearing Strawberry Plants are currently listed as bare-root plants suitable for garden beds, raised beds, and containers. The current listing specifies full sun, well-draining rich soil, and consistent moisture.

This makes strawberries a useful example of how bare-root planting can work for both edible gardens and container growing.

Before purchasing any live plant, always check the current listing for shipping condition, hardiness zone, planting instructions, and availability.

Can You Grow Bare Root Plants in Containers?

Yes, depending on the plant.

Bare root plants can be planted into suitable containers when the plant's mature size and root requirements allow it.

Good container candidates can include certain:

• Strawberries
• Perennials
• Small fruit plants
• Compact ornamentals

Choose the container based on the plant's root system and mature size rather than simply choosing the largest pot available.

You can explore Grow It Depot's current selection of pots and containers here:

Shop Pots & Containers

Choosing the Right Growing Medium

For container-grown bare root plants, the growing medium should provide:

• Good drainage
• Adequate moisture retention
• Root aeration
• Suitable structure
• Nutrient availability appropriate for the plant

One option available from Grow It Depot is Mother Earth Coco + Perlite Mix, which is listed as a 70% coco and 30% perlite growing medium designed to provide aeration and drainage.

View Mother Earth Coco + Perlite Mix

Remember that the best growing medium depends on the plant. A strawberry, succulent, tree, and tropical houseplant do not necessarily need the same mix.

Common Bare Root Planting Mistakes

Even healthy bare root plants can struggle when planted incorrectly.

Mistake 1: Letting Roots Dry Out

Exposed roots can dry quickly in sun and wind.

Better approach: Keep roots protected and moist until planting.

Mistake 2: Planting Too Deep

Deep planting can reduce oxygen availability around roots and bury important plant structures.

Better approach: Identify the crown, root flare, or planting-depth marker before backfilling.

Mistake 3: Folding the Roots

Trying to force long roots into a small hole can create poor root placement.

Better approach: Dig wider and spread the roots naturally.

Mistake 4: Watering Too Little

New roots need moisture while establishing.

Better approach: Monitor soil moisture regularly.

Mistake 5: Overwatering

Constantly saturated soil can create oxygen problems around roots.

Better approach: Water thoroughly, then allow appropriate drainage.

Mistake 6: Fertilizing Too Soon

New roots can be sensitive to concentrated fertilizer.

Better approach: Let the plant establish first and follow plant-specific feeding recommendations.

Mistake 7: Planting Without Checking the Climate

A plant that grows well in one hardiness zone may not perform well in another.

Better approach: Check the plant's hardiness zone and local growing conditions before planting.

Bare Root Planting: Do & Don't

Do	Don't
Plant as soon as practical	Leave roots exposed for hours
Keep roots moist	Let roots dry in sun or wind
Inspect roots before planting	Ignore damaged or rotten roots
Dig a wide hole	Force roots into a narrow hole
Spread roots naturally	Fold or tightly coil roots
Follow planting-depth instructions	Automatically plant deeply
Water after planting	Allow newly planted roots to dry out
Use mulch appropriately	Pile mulch against the stem
Follow plant-specific care instructions	Treat every bare root plant the same

A 5-Minute Bare Root Planting Checklist

Before you begin, ask:

Before Planting

• Is my planting location ready?

• Does the plant suit my climate?

• Have I checked its sunlight requirements?

• Are the roots moist?

• Have I inspected for damage?

• Do I know the correct planting depth?

• Do I have clean water available?

During Planting

• Did I dig a wide enough hole?

• Are the roots spread naturally?

• Is the crown/root flare at the correct level?

• Did I avoid bending or crushing the roots?

• Did I backfill carefully?

After Planting

• Did I water thoroughly?

• Is the soil staying appropriately moist?

• Is mulch positioned correctly?

• Have I marked the plant if it is dormant?

• Am I checking the plant regularly?

Quick Tips for Bare Root Success

Tip 1: Prepare the planting hole before your plant arrives.

Tip 2: Never allow bare roots to dry out.

Tip 3: Don't panic if a dormant plant arrives without leaves.

Tip 4: Soak roots according to the plant's specific instructions.

Tip 5: Make the planting hole wide enough for natural root spread.

Tip 6: Pay close attention to crown or root-flare depth.

Tip 7: Water thoroughly immediately after planting.

Tip 8: Keep checking soil moisture while the plant establishes.

Tip 9: Don't rush to fertilize.

Tip 10: Save the plant label or planting instructions for future reference.

When Should You Expect New Growth?

The timing depends heavily on the plant and growing conditions.

Dormant plants may take time to wake up after planting. Root establishment and top growth do not always happen at the same speed.

Factors affecting new growth include:

• Plant species
• Planting season
• Temperature
• Soil moisture
• Sunlight
• Plant health
• Dormancy status
• Local climate

A bare root plant may look quiet above ground while developing roots below the soil.

Patience is part of successful bare-root gardening.

What If My Bare Root Plant Looks Wilted After Planting?

Some transplant stress can occur after planting.

First, check:

1. Is the soil too dry?
2. Is the soil waterlogged?
3. Was the plant exposed to drying wind or sun?
4. Was it planted too deeply?
5. Were the roots damaged?
6. Is the plant still dormant?
7. Does the species naturally take time to establish?

Avoid reacting by automatically adding more water or fertilizer.

Instead, check the root zone and follow the care instructions for the specific plant.

Shop Bare Root-Friendly Garden Supplies

Once you have your bare root plant, having the right planting supplies ready can make the process easier.

Browse Grow It Depot's gardening categories for:

• Pots and containers
• Growing media
• Garden supplies
• Seed starting and propagation supplies
• Live plants and edible plants

Browse Grow It Depot Products

For container gardening, you can also explore:

Shop Growing Media

Shop Pots & Containers

Frequently Asked Questions

Are bare root plants alive?

Yes. Bare root plants are living plants whose soil has been removed from the roots for shipping or storage. Many are shipped dormant, so they may have little or no visible foliage when they arrive.

How long can bare root plants stay out of the soil?

They should be planted as soon as practical. If planting must be delayed, keep the roots protected and moist and store the plant in a cool, non-freezing location according to the plant's instructions.

Should I soak bare root plants before planting?

Often yes, but the recommended soaking time varies by plant. Many extension recommendations fall around 30 minutes to 2 hours, while some woody plant guidance allows longer soaking but warns against excessive soaking. Follow the instructions for your specific plant.

Can I plant a bare root plant in a pot?

Some bare root plants can be grown successfully in containers. Choose a container and growing medium appropriate for the plant's root system, mature size, drainage needs, and climate.

Why does my bare root plant have no leaves?

Many bare root plants are shipped dormant. A leafless plant is not automatically dead. Check the roots, buds, plant condition, and specific product information before judging the plant.

Should I fertilize immediately after planting?

Not usually. Young roots can be sensitive to fertilizer. Follow the plant-specific recommendations and allow the plant time to establish. Iowa State Extension recommends waiting at least four weeks before fertilizing bare root perennials.

How often should I water a bare root plant?

Watering depends on the plant, soil, weather, and drainage. Keep the root zone appropriately moist during establishment, but avoid keeping the soil continuously saturated.

What is the most important thing when planting bare root plants?

Do not let the roots dry out. Proper planting depth, natural root placement, thorough initial watering, and consistent aftercare are also important for successful establishment.

Final Thoughts

Bare root plants may look different from the potted plants you are used to buying, but the planting process is straightforward once you understand the basics.

The most important steps are to protect the roots, inspect the plant, rehydrate when appropriate, prepare a wide planting hole, spread the roots naturally, plant at the correct depth, and maintain consistent moisture after planting.

Don't worry if your new plant looks small or dormant when it arrives. With the right planting conditions and proper care, many bare root plants can develop into healthy additions to your garden.

Start with the roots, give the plant the right foundation, and let nature take it from there.