Planting Bare-Root Seedlings

1. Plant ASAP; the sooner, the better. Winter is an ideal time to plant because the seedling is dormant, giving it time to establish its root system before spring leaf-out. Never let the roots dry out. If you must wait a few days before planting, store in a cool place such as the refrigerator.

2. Remove the grass in a 3’ diameter circle. 

3. Dig a hole that extends generously beyond the diameter of the tree’s roots.  Break up clumps, creating a pile of soft, loose soil that roots can easily grow into. You can amend the soil with decomposed compost, but nothing chemical laden.

4. Plant the seedling to the same depth as it was originally. Gently fill the hole, making sure the roots fan out from the trunk in a natural way. 

5. Water well (a full gallon is good), which will naturally settle the soil. You can very lightly tamp the soil by hand, but do not step on the soil as that will tear the tender roots.

6. Use any leftover soil to create a water-holding ring around the tree, but keep away from the trunk.

Mulch the Seedling

Mulch the seedling a couple inches thick, creating a donut around the seedling. You want to cover the entire area where the grass has been removed but not touching the trunk. Keep the mulch several inches from the trunk.

Dye-free mulch is preferred, as colorant chemicals are harmful to seedlings/trees and contaminate groundwater resources. Wood chips are chemical-free and often free from tree trimmers or municipal Christmas tree chippings, making them an ideal mulch.

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