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What are "bare-root" tree seedlings?

By Steve Nix, About.com

bare-root seedling

seedling

USFS

Question: What are "bare-root" tree seedlings?

Answer: Bare-root seedlings are usually two to three year-old trees and lifted from commercial or government nursery beds. They are delivered in bulk with roots covered in only a very moist medium or slurry. No earth ball encloses the roots.

These seedlings are generally associated with wildland or woods planting geared toward the reforestation of large areas. They are less expensive to purchase but demand greater planting care. Seedlings should only be planted after October. The optimal time to plant is from December 15 through the end of March.

Here is exactly how to plant those bare-root seedlings - Planting Bare-root Seedlings

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