A bare root tree looks like a stick with roots, and that is exactly why experienced growers like them. The tree travels while it is asleep, it costs less to ship, and it wakes up already planted in your soil instead of in a pot. Planting one is simple, but the order of the steps matters.
Step 1: Soak the roots. As soon as your tree arrives, put the roots in a bucket of water for 6 to 12 hours. Never leave them soaking more than 24 hours, and do not let the roots dry out at any point.
Step 2: Dig a wide hole. Make it two to three times wider than the root spread, but no deeper than the roots need. In most soils, a hole about 18 to 24 inches wide and 12 to 18 inches deep is right for a young tree.
Step 3: Build a small cone of soil in the center and spread the roots over it, pointing down and out. Set the tree so the graft union, the knobby swelling near the base, sits 2 to 3 inches above the soil line.
Step 4: Backfill with the soil you dug out, firming gently as you go to remove air pockets. Water in deeply, about 5 gallons, and let the soil settle. Add more soil if it sinks below the graft.
Step 5: Mulch in a wide ring, 2 to 4 inches deep, keeping the mulch a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch is what keeps the root zone moist and cool while the tree settles in.
The first month decides almost everything. Keep the root zone moist with a deep watering about twice a week when rain is scarce, and check before you water: the surface can look dry while the roots are still damp.
Not sure if a bare root tree fits your climate? Check your zone first with our free tool: https://fruittreedirect.com/pages/find-your-growing-zone
Our bare root trees, including the Kieffer pear (https://fruittreedirect.com/products/kieffer-pear-tree) and the Honeycrisp apple (https://fruittreedirect.com/products/honeycrisp-apple-tree), ship dormant in the planting window for your zone, and every one is covered by our Arrive Alive Guarantee.