Learn from Alan why autumn is the best time to plant shrubs and how to ensure a successful and long-lasting investment. Discover tips for selecting and planting bare root shrubs, as well as essential techniques for pruning, shaping the planting hole, and caring for shrubs. Avoid common mistakes and follow the steps for successful planting, including quick action upon plant arrival and voicing concerns to suppliers.
21:47
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Autumn is the best season for planting bare root shrubs due to their advantages over container-grown shrubs.
To successfully plant bare root shrubs, prepare the soil, incorporate mycorrhizal fungi, and plant at the correct depth.
Deep dives
Benefits of Bare Root Shrubs
Bare root shrubs, which are transplanted in the dormant period between November and March, have several advantages. They are less likely to suffer shock and dehydration when transplanted compared to shrubs transplanted in spring and summer when they are in full leaf. Additionally, bare root shrubs are generally less expensive as they do not require containers. They also require less feeding and water as they have a free root run in the nursery soil. Examples of suitable bare root shrubs include roses, fruit trees, and deciduous hedge plants such as hawthorn and blackthorn.
Planting Bare Root Shrubs
When planting bare root shrubs, it is recommended to prepare the soil well by incorporating homemade compost or well-rotted manure. Snip back any long and straggly roots to about four inches in length. Mycorrhizal fungi, which can be purchased in bags, can be added around the roots to enhance growth. It is important to plant at the same depth as the plant was growing in the nursery, with an exception for roses where the rootstock should be just below soil level. After planting, it is advisable to snip off a third of the growth to reduce the amount of top growth the plant needs to support.
Care for Bare Root Shrubs
To care for bare root shrubs, it is crucial to ensure they do not dry out, especially upon arrival. Watering is important to settle the soil around the roots and prevent drying. In the following spring, shoot tips can be nipped out to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. It is common to keep bare root shrubs in the sack for too long before planting, which can be detrimental. Prompt action upon arrival and immediate planting is recommended. Bare root shrubs are hardier, require less maintenance, and are a cost-effective option compared to container-grown shrubs.
Discover from Alan why autumn is the perfect season for planting shrubs – and how to ensure your investment pays you back for years of pleasure to come