Bareroot Seedlings

Planting bareroot seedlings so they survive requires attention to fundamentals: correct stem orientation, planting depth, root arrangement, and the firmness of the soil used for backfill.

• Stem Orientation
• Planting Depth
• Root Arrangement
• Firmness of Soil Used for Backfill

Stem Orientation

Orient the tree stem at an angle between 90 degrees with the horizontal plane and 90 degrees with the slope face. This angle will be achieved if the hole is opened properly. (top)

Planting Depth

Plant the seedling at about the same ground line as established at the nursery. The root collar or cotyledon scar is an indicator of the original ground line. No portion of the roots should be exposed, nor should any needles or branches be covered with soil.

Correct depth placement is especially critical on sites with high insolation. The stem tissue at the base of the seedling is thicker and provides better insulation than stem tissue above the ground line or root tissue below. High soil temperatures at the ground line can be lethal to tender stem or root tissue. (top)

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