When is the best month to plant bare-root trees in the UK?

November and December are ideal for most of the UK. The soil is still warm enough for root growth, and autumn rain keeps the ground moist. Planting can continue through to early March in most regions. Avoid planting into frozen or waterlogged ground. Northern Scotland may need to wait until February if the ground freezes hard.

Can I plant a bare-root tree in March?

Yes, but earlier is better. March planting shortens the time roots have to establish before spring growth starts. Water more frequently through spring and summer to compensate. By late March, buds are swelling on most species, and the risk of transplant stress increases. If your tree arrives in March, plant it the same day.

How long can I store a bare-root tree before planting?

Plant bare-root trees as soon as possible after delivery. If you cannot plant within 48 hours, heel them in. Dig a shallow trench in a sheltered spot, lay the roots in at an angle, and cover with moist soil. Heeled-in trees survive for several weeks. Never leave roots exposed to air or stored in a warm shed.

Do bare-root trees need staking?

Yes, all bare-root trees need staking for the first 2-3 years. Use a short stake driven into the planting hole before positioning the tree. Tie the tree to the stake with a rubber tree tie and spacer. Dwarf fruit trees on M9 or M27 rootstock need permanent staking. Check ties twice a year and loosen as the trunk thickens.

Why choose bare-root over container-grown trees?

Bare-root trees cost 30-50% less, offer a wider variety selection from specialist nurseries. And develop stronger root systems because roots grow outward into the soil rather than circling a pot. The only drawback is a shorter planting window: November to March only. Container-grown trees can go in year-round.

How much does a bare-root tree cost?

A bare-root fruit tree costs between 15 and 30 pounds depending on variety, age. And rootstock. Bare-root native trees such as oak, birch, and rowan start from 3 to 5 pounds each for 60-90cm whips. Hedging plants like hawthorn cost as little as 80p each when bought in bundles of 25 or more. Prices are roughly half those of equivalent container-grown stock.

Should I add compost to the planting hole?

Do not backfill with pure compost or enriched soil. Mix no more than 20% compost with the excavated soil. Backfilling with rich compost creates a 'sump' effect where roots stay within the amended soil instead of growing outward. Work a handful of bone meal into the backfill for slow-release phosphorus to encourage root development.

How often should I water a newly planted bare-root tree?

Water weekly through the first spring and summer with 20-30 litres per session. A slow trickle from a hose for 15-20 minutes is more effective than a quick splash. Continue weekly watering during dry spells in the second year. By the third year, most trees have established enough to cope without supplementary watering except in prolonged drought.

How To | 3 October 2025 | 13 min read

How to Plant Bare-Root Trees in the UK

Step-by-step UK guide to planting bare-root trees and hedging. Covers best planting time, soil prep, staking, mulching, and first-year aftercare.

Bare-root apple tree with bare spreading roots laid out beside a freshly dug planting hole in winter soil

How To

Bare-root trees are field-grown plants sold without soil during their dormant season from November to March. They cost 30-50% less than container-grown equivalents, establish faster, and develop stronger root systems. The planting window is November to early March, avoiding frozen or waterlogged ground. Bare-root hedging plants such as hawthorn, beech, and hornbeam cost as little as 80p per plant when bought in bundles of 25 or more.

Planting WindowNovember to early March

Cost Saving30-50% less than container-grown

Root Soak2-4 hours in water first

Hole WidthTwice the root spread

Key takeaways

Plant bare-root trees between November and early March while they are fully dormant
Bare-root trees cost 30-50% less than container-grown and establish faster with stronger root systems
Soak roots in water for 2-4 hours before planting — never let them dry out
Dig the planting hole twice as wide as the root spread but no deeper than the nursery soil mark
Stake all bare-root trees with a short stake (60cm above ground) driven in before the tree goes in
Apply a 5-8cm mulch of compost around the base, keeping it 10cm away from the trunk
Water weekly through the first spring and summer, giving 20-30 litres per session

bare-root trees tree planting hedging bare-root hedging fruit trees native trees winter planting

By Garden UK Editorial Team

Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.

About our editorial team · How we work

What do you need help with?

How to Plant Bare-Root Trees in the UK

Seasonal tips, straight to your inbox

Seasonal tips, straight to your inbox

More in How To

Plant Pot Sizes: Litres to CM Made Simple

What to Do in the Garden in April: Priorities

What to Do in the Garden in February: 13 Jobs