Bare Root Fruit Trees

Bare root fruit trees are one of the most cost-effective and reliable ways to plant healthy, productive fruit trees in your garden. Supplied when dormant and free of soil, these trees are lighter to transport, easy to handle, and develop strong root systems that support vigorous growth and abundant fruiting.

Whether you’re establishing a home orchard or adding a few edible trees to your backyard, bare root fruit trees offer excellent value and long-term performance when planted between late winter and early spring

Why Choose Bare Root Fruit Trees

Bare root fruit trees are typically more affordable than container-grown stock because they are field-grown and dug without pots or potting medium, which reduces nursery costs.

Key benefits include:

• Stronger root establishment — Bare root trees make direct contact with your soil, encouraging faster root spread. 
• Easier planting & handling — Lightweight dormancy makes transporting and positioning simpler.
• Better value for money — Lower upfront cost compared to pot-grown trees.

When to Plant Bare Root Fruit Trees

Bare root fruit trees are generally available in winter through early spring, and planting them while still dormant ensures the best chance of rapid establishment and growth.

Aim to plant:

• Late winter to early spring — before buds begin to swell. 
• If bare root stock arrives early, have the planting site ready so you can plant immediately.

Proper timing reduces transplant shock and helps the roots settle into your garden soil before new growth starts. 

Planting Bare Root Fruit Trees: Step-by-Step Guide

The secret to planting all fruit trees is to prepare the soil well before, and to plant the trees as soon as you get them home.

The roots should be covered when you buy them, usually in sawdust or similar.

Good preparation and correct planting techniques give your trees the best start:

1. Prepare your soil — Choose a well-drained spot and improve soil with organic matter several weeks before planting. 
2. Dig the hole — Make it two to three times wider than the root spread, and about as deep as the root system. 
3. Spread the roots gently — Position the tree so the root flare is just above soil level, and spread roots out into the planting hole.
4. Backfill and firm in — Firm the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets and create a shallow basin to hold water. 
5. Stake if needed — Support taller trees with a stake to prevent wind rock.
6. Mulch and water well — Apply mulch around the base (but not up the trunk) and water thoroughly. 
7. Water well through the first summer.

Avoid over-fertilising at planting time; the first priority is root establishment.

Types of Bare Root Fruit Trees Available

Most deciduous fruit species are offered as bare root stock, giving you flexibility to choose what suits your garden and climate. Common options include:

• Apple Trees
• Cherry Trees
• Plum Trees
• Pomegranate Trees
• Pears
• Plums
• Apricots
• Nectarines
• Figs
• Quince
• Blueberry varieties

Different Sizes are also Available

• Miniature
• Dwarf
• Semi Dwarf
• Full sized
• Multi Grafted

Care After Planting

After establishing your bare root fruit trees:

• Water regularly — especially through the first growing season.
• Prune yearly — dormant pruning shapes the tree and improves airflow.
• Protect young trees — netting helps prevent bird damage once fruiting begins.

Note: Fruiting timeline varies by species and site conditions.

Bare Root Fruit Trees — FAQs

A Video Guide

Where To Buy

GARDEN EXPRESS - phone :1300 606 242
470 Monbulk-Silvan Road Monbulk VIC 3793
"Guaranteed mail order flowering bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, landscaping plants, garden accessories and community fundraising Austra lia-wide."
www.gardenexpress.com.au

In Victoria try

Author JohnnyA