What To Do When Your Bareroot Nursery Stock Arrives
Handle the stock carefully. It is essential that the roots do not dry out at anytime. Keep the plants out of the wind, sun and freezing temperatures. If the plants are frozen, do not handle them until thawed. Thawing should be done slowly at a temperature just above freezing.

Storing Bareroot Plants
Bareroot nursery stock can be held for a length of time before potting or planting.If a cold storage facility is available, store bareroot nursery stock at 34-28° F and maintain humidity at 90% or higher. If cold storage is not available, wet down plants and store in a cool, moist, protected area such as a shed or garage. It is important that the roots are kept moist. Water roots well and completely cover them with straw, shredded paper, shingletoe or bark mulch. Cover with poly or a tarp. Keep the plants moist and avoid temperature extremes. For a longer holding period, plants would be trenched in or heeled in sand, sawdust, wood chips or gravel. Once buds break dormancy, the plants must be potted or planted. Rehydrate roots before potting or lining out.

Heeling-in
This is a protective measure that takes place prior to permanent planting in which a trench is dug and roots are completely covered with soil. Heel-in the nursery stock in a sheltered place where there is no frost. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. When replanting in a permanent location, protect roots of trees with a covering of wet burlap during transportation.

Rehydrating
Make a fresh cut on the tips of the roots and soak the root systems in water for several hours. A large tank or pond is ideal for soaking. A rooting hormone can be added to the water if desired. Rehydrating bareroot nursery stock facilitate the transition from the dormant to the growing stage.

Proper Planting Depth
Most shrubs are somewhat forgiving as to planting depth in the field or in the container. However, it is recommended to plant at the same depth as grown before harvesting. On the other hand, planting trees at an improper depth can result in poor performance and premature death. Areas to look for on the base of the tree are the bud point, root collar and the position of the highest root. It is generally accepted by most authorities that it is better to plant a little to shallow than a little too deep. 

Selecting A Pot Size
Select an adequate pot size so that very few roots need to be pruned.  Roots should not be crammed in the pot or circling the pot. The roots should be uniformly distributed around the trunk or crown.

Watering
Shortly after potting or planting in the field or landscape, thoroughly water plants to remove air pockets and to provide adequate moisture to the root zone soil.

Fertilizing
Fertilizers produce elements necessary for healthy plant growth. Fertilizer should be added by incorporating in the potting mix or top dressing after the plant has been potted. We recommend a balanced, slow release fertilizer. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label to avoid injury. Reduce the use of fertilizer later in the season so the plants have a chance to harden off before cold temperatures begin to set in.