The cool, short days of winter usher in the bare-root planting season. Bare-root plants have been tended in commercial growing fields for several years, then dug and supplied to retailers with their roots bare of soil, but kept moist enough to prevent dehydration.
Roses, fruit trees, grapes, and berries are all available at this time of the year in bare-root form. The selection of these plants will be better now than at any time of the year. Nurseries will often have more than 100 different varieties of roses available. The selection includes climbing roses, floribundas, and hybrid tea roses. Some of the larger nurseries will also carry mini roses, shrub roses, and ‘David Austin’ Old English Roses. Some roses are sold as “true bare root,” meaning they are sold without any soil or other packing material around the roots. Others have their roots surrounded by organic mulch and wrapped in plastic or biodegradable pots.
Bare-root plants are very easy to transport and plant. Another advantage of purchasing plants during bare-root season is the selection. Nurseries are able to stock hundreds of varieties of bare-root plants. Gardeners are almost certain to find their favorite variety during bare-root season.
Winter is also the best time to select and pant bare-root fruit trees and berries. Apricots, apples, peaches, plums, and nectarines are all sold as bare-root trees. These trees are available as dwarf, semi-dwarf or standard size trees.
Soil preparation for bare-root plants is the same as for container plants. Dig a hole two to three feet wide and about one foot deep. The soil removed from the hole should be amended with organic material and bone meal. No fertilizer needs to be added until the spring.
Spread the roots of the plant in the hole, and firm the soil around the roots as you fill the hole. Water the plant well to settle the soil. Make sure that the crown or graft of roses and fruit trees is well above the ground level. Most fruit trees do not need to be staked, except for in areas of high winds.
With a little planning and care this winter, your yard may be blooming with roses and your trees filled with fruit by summer.
For additional information, consult the garden experts at Green Thumb Garden Center located at 23734 Newhall Avenue, formerly San Fernando Road, in Newhall. You can also call 661-259-1072.