Strategies for Purchasing Bare Root Vegetation
In the world of gardening, there are various options for purchasing plants, with bare root plants being one of them. These plants are sold while dormant, without soil around their roots or a rootball.
The process of obtaining bare root plants involves pulling them from their growing spot while dormant and shaking off the soil from the roots. This method makes them easier to transport and less expensive due to their dormant state.
Gardeners have the choice between bare root plants and rootball plants, and the decision depends on individual preferences. However, it's essential to buy bare root plants from a reputable source to ensure healthy, hardy, and vital shrubs and trees.
When buying bare root plants, it's crucial to carefully inspect the roots and buds to ensure the plant will thrive in the garden. Healthy canopies and firm, green buds are ideal signs of a healthy plant. However, minor damage to roots can be trimmed off before planting with sharp pruning shears. On the contrary, extremely light or soft, squishy roots should be avoided.
The roots of a bare root plant should be firm and healthy, with a good-sized root system. A healthy, returned root piece of a plant looks firm and solid, free of damaged or rotten parts. Any damaged or rotten sections should be cleanly removed with a sharp garden tool.
Good packaging extends the vitality and life of the plants. Careful, appropriate packing protects both the bare roots of the plants and the trunk and branches, keeping them cool and moist. The nursery should "heel in" the plants by covering the roots with loose, moist material like sawdust.
Teo Spengler, a master gardener and docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden, emphasizes the importance of selecting healthy, well-packed bare root plants. She has experience gardening in a range of climates and currently splits her life between San Francisco and the French Basque Country.
It's important to note that bare root plants must be planted promptly as they have to be in the ground before the plant breaks dormancy. This is usually during early spring, depending on the climate. Bare root plants are planted by backfilling the planting hole with the removed soil.
In conclusion, bare root plants can be a cost-effective and practical choice for gardeners. By choosing a reputable source, carefully inspecting the plants, and planting them promptly, gardeners can enjoy a thriving garden filled with healthy shrubs and trees.
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