Bare Root Hedging - Season Over!

This year the season has closed early because of the freakish warm weather.   It's too risky now.  The new season begins again in November with pre-order deals from August.  Sorry but you need to buy pot grown plants from now til then.

Bare root hedging refers to plants that are sold without soil around their roots, typically during the dormant season from November to March. This method allows for easier handling and planting of larger quantities of hedging plants at a lower cost. 

The plants are usually lifted from the ground and their roots are cleaned before being transported and sold. Bare root hedging is ideal for those looking to create substantial hedges on a budget, but it requires careful handling and planting to ensure successful establishment. 

Bare Root Hedging: Essential Information and Tips 

Availability and Ordering 

 Bare root hedging plants are available from November to March. For the best selection, it’s advisable to place your order early, particularly as the first diggings in November often offer the freshest and most robust plants. By ordering in advance, you can also benefit from extra incentives we provide for early reservations. 

Collection and Storage  

If you wish to collect your bare root plants from our nursery, please order through our website and wait for a confirmation call regarding availability.

Bare Root Hedging: Essential Advice

Bare root hedging is a cost-effective choice for large-scale planting projects. However, to ensure success, it’s important to follow some key guidelines. Beech (Fagus) can be particularly difficult to establish, so we recommend ordering 20–30% more plants to allow for potential losses.

If you don’t plan to read the full advice page, at least stick to these two basics:

• Trim back at least one-third of the top growth when planting.

• Keep the roots moist while the plants are out of the ground.

Following these simple steps can significantly improve your planting results.

Planting Bare Root Hedging  

• Be Ready: Plant bare root plants as soon as they arrive. They should not be left unplanted for long, as their roots can dry out quickly.

• If You Can't Plant Immediately:

  • Keep the roots moist by soaking them in water daily.

  • Alternatively, temporarily cover the roots with moist soil to protect them from drying out.

• Before Planting: Trim back the top third of last year’s growth. This helps the plant recover by balancing the loss of roots during digging.

Special Considerations 

 Some species require extra care. Beech and yew, for instance, are more difficult to establish. Beech does not perform well in waterlogged conditions, so for very wet sites, consider alternatives like Carpinus. Yew needs well-drained soil, which can be enhanced by adding grit or gravel and planting in a raised bed to facilitate drainage. Ensure the planting hole is well-prepared, with fertile, broken-down soil, and avoid planting too deep—use the original soil level from when the plant was dug as your guide. 

Post-Planting Care 

In Summary, Bare root hedging is a cost-effective and practical solution for creating substantial and attractive garden boundaries. With careful planning, planting, and ongoing care, you can achieve a thriving hedge that enhances both the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space.