Collection: Bare Root Plants

Bare root plants are those that have been lifted from the ground and sold as the stem and the root network (as opposed to potted plants which are supplied in a pot with soil/compost). Trees, soft fruits and roses are often supplied as bare root plants.

There are a couple of major benefits to bare root plants; the first is that they’re typically cheaper than their potted counterparts. Another benefit is that it can help the plant to take root and establish more quickly and more successfully. With less packaging and being more lightweight, they’re often less damaging to the environment, too.

Bare root plants are lifted between November and March, during a plant’s dormant season. This is one of their few downsides; potted plants can be bought year-round whereas bare root plants can’t. Still, it’s a fair few months to be able to get them!

Bare root plants benefit from being soaked for 24 hours prior to planting. Then, sprinkle some Rootgrow into the planting hole, before positioning your bare root plant and backfilling the hole. Firm the ground in with your feet and give a good initial watering.

Yes! In fact, we advise you soak your bare root plant(s) for at least 24 hours prior to planting, so that’s at least one set of nocturnal hours, whenever you choose to soak them.

Neither bare root nor potted is better than the other, as they offer different benefits. Bare root plants offer better value for money, however they’re limited to one half of the year. Potted plants, meanwhile, can be bought throughout the year, but are more expensive and don’t necessarily establish as quickly as their bare root siblings.