Easy-care guide to bare-root shrubs
By Scott J Millin
The perfect time of year to plant bare-root shrubs in the garden is late winter. Many supermarkets are now selling them in upright cardboard boxes very cheaply. I picked this one up in Tesco at a reduced price of £2.22.
Before buying any shrub, I’d advise you to check the height, width and the growing conditions required. Don’t waste your money if your garden cannot accommodate and match the requirements. You will probably end up very disappointed.
Inside the box, you will find the roots of the plant wrapped up in a bag with a little bit of soil. I tend to look for those showing signs of leaf buds. Then, I know the plant is ready to spring to life.
Before planting, you want to give the roots a good soaking by standing them in water for an hour or two. I find using a watering can works well for this job. Standing the plant in water allows the roots to absorb moisture and helps reduce the shock of transplanting.
Generally, I would dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots and fill it with water, leaving it to soak in. This locks in moisture below and around the roots, stopping the soil from drying out too quickly. However, it has been so wet lately that this is not necessary.
I never add compost or soil improver to the planting hole. I only backfill with the excavated soil. You don’t want the roots getting too comfy, or they could become root-bound within the planting hole, especially if you have clay soil.
Once planted, gently firm around the roots, give the plant another good watering and mulch around the plant. Mulching with compost or leaf mould will lock in moisture and help feed the plant.
Lastly, prune any damaged or excessively long branches to help promote healthy growth. You will need to keep your shrub well-watered in the first year. After that, it shouldn’t need any special treatment apart from a light trim now and again.
Thank you for reading!
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