Here is an example of a bare root Harcot apricot from One Green World for $49.99. Alongside it is a 1-gallon Peter’s Honey Fig. Shipping cross country is $49 for both trees. Shipping box is to right. I’ve ordered a few times from OGW. I’m pretty happy with what you get from them. Although wish the figs were a little more developed.
My favorite mail order seller is Just Fruits and Exotics, but OGW has much more variety and is generally cheaper in price. With Just Fruits you get bigger trees, but at a higher price. Either way, both sellers give you careful packing and excellent service and communication.
OGW’s planting / care guide.
When I unwrap the bare root, I will try to get a photo of the roots if I remember. I generally don’t like bare root trees, but I can’t always get certain potted trees where I’m at. I ordered some bare root crabapples from Fedco. I will send in a report when they are shipped / received.
Here is Google on bare root…
Plant bare-root fruit trees in late winter to early spring while dormant, selecting a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Soak roots for 2–6 hours, dig a hole twice as wide as the roots, and plant at the same depth as the nursery, ensuring the graft union is 2-3 inches above ground.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Preparation & Timing
Best Time: Late winter to early spring (before new growth begins).
Soak Roots: Soak roots in a bucket of water for 2 to 6 hours before planting to rehydrate.
Inspect Roots: Trim any dead, broken, or diseased roots with clean, sharp pruners.
- Choosing the Site
Sun: Select a location that receives full sun (8+ hours).
Soil: Ensure good drainage. Avoid planting in low spots where water pools.
- Planting the Tree
Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is wide enough to spread out the roots without bending them, and deep enough to accommodate the root system.
Positioning: Place the tree in the hole, spreading roots outward. Do not plant too deep. The soil level should match the soil line on the trunk from the nursery (the graft union—the knob on the lower trunk—must stay 2–3 inches above ground).
Backfill: Fill the hole with the native soil (avoid heavy amendments) and shake the tree gently to settle soil around the roots, removing air pockets.
Water In: Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
- Post-Planting Care
Watering: Water consistently. If there is no rain, deeply water every 10–14 days, especially during the first growing season.
Mulch: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk to prevent decay.
Fertilizer: Avoid fertilizer, potting soil, or amendments directly in the hole, as this can kill young roots.
Pruning: Prune top branches to balance the roots removed during harvesting, often reducing the height by 1/3, or consult a professional for your specific tree type.
- Special Considerations
Protection: Place a fence (like chicken wire) around the tree if deer or rabbits are in the area.
Support: Use a stake for the first year if the tree is located in a windy spot.
Initial Blooms: It is recommended to remove all blossoms the first year to encourage root establishment over fruit production.
Storage:
Bare root trees should ideally be planted within 24–48 hours of arrival, but they can survive up to one to two weeks if stored correctly in a cool, dark place with roots kept moist. They must remain dormant, with roots protected from drying out or freezing. If immediate planting is impossible, heel them into loose soil, sand, or mulch.
Temporary Storage Tips:
Keep Roots Moist: Keep the roots hydrated by covering them with wet burlap, damp mulch, or soil.
Do Not Let Them Freeze or Dry: Store in a cool, frost-free area (like a shed, garage, or cold basement) between 34–40°F (1–4°C).
Soak Before Planting: Soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–12 hours before planting, but do not soak for longer than 24 hours to avoid drowning the roots.
If the tree begins to sprout leaves before planting, it is losing its dormant state and must be planted immediately to survive.