Bare Root Tree Planting-Day Checklist

A little preparation keeps bare roots from drying out and makes planting more accurate. Use this checklist on planting day, then follow the detailed instructions in How to Plant a Bare Root Fruit Tree.

If you have not selected a tree yet, start with How to Choose a Bare Root Fruit Tree or browse current bare root trees.

Before You Start

• Confirm the planting location has adequate sun, drainage, mature-tree space, and access to water.
• Check the variety’s pollination needs and planned distance from its compatible partner.
• Keep the roots moist, shaded, and protected from wind while you work.
• Locate the graft union and the original nursery soil line.
• Inspect the roots and trim only dead, broken, or badly damaged portions with clean tools.

Gather Your Planting Supplies

• Shovel and hand cultivator or trowel
• Bucket or other means of keeping roots moist
• Watering hose or filled watering containers
• Clean pruning shears
• Mulch for the surrounding soil surface
• Gopher basket, trunk protection, or stakes only where conditions require them

A low-nitrogen planting amendment such as an appropriate low-nitrogen soil amendment can be used according to its label. Avoid adding high rates of nitrogen fertilizer at planting.

Prepare the Hole

1. Dig no deeper than the root system requires and approximately two to three times as wide.
2. Create gently sloping sides and roughen any glazed soil surfaces.
3. Build a firm soil cone if needed to support the roots in their natural outward position.
4. Install a properly sized gopher basket before positioning the tree where gophers are a concern.

Position and Backfill

• Spread roots naturally without circling, sharply bending, or compressing them.
• Keep the graft union safely above the final soil line.
• Backfill primarily with the excavated native soil.
• Firm the soil gently to reduce large air pockets without heavily compacting it.
• Water thoroughly and correct the tree’s depth if settling places it too low.

Finish the Job

• Apply mulch over the surrounding root zone, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
• Add trunk or animal protection where needed.
• Stake only if the site or tree requires support, allowing some natural movement.
• Record the variety, rootstock, planting date, and pollination partner for future reference.

After Planting

Follow the first 30 days of bare root tree care, then use the broader receiving and first-year care guide.

Related Fruit Tree Resources

Content role: Supplementary resource · Topic: Pest, disease & diagnostic support

• Fruit Tree Central
• Shop Organic Disease Control
• Shop Organic Pest Control