Bareroot Seedlings (continued)

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

Root Arrangement

The seedling should be planted so its root system is in its natural configuration and free to grow. The roots should radiate downward in a cone. Proper arrangement is critical for the roots to take up as much water as possible. Train inspectors to recognize improper root arrangement. Do not allow planters to cut, strip, or otherwise alter roots before they plant the seedlings.

To spot violations, inspectors and foremen must know exactly what the root systems should look like. Root systems vary by species and tree lot. Inspectors should visit the wrapping shed or tree bagging sites regularly to observe the length and number of lateral roots, as well as the length of the taproot.

Planters may strip or shorten only the seedling's lateral roots. Tree root systems normally have a bell shape, with many of the laterals hanging down. The laterals may be as long as, or sometimes longer than, the tap root. The root system should not look like a “skinny carrot” with no laterals, nor should all the laterals be appreciably shorter than the taproot.

Planters strip roots when they have trouble fitting them into the hole properly. To help prevent planters from stripping roots, order the appropriate kind of stock for the site. For example, do not order 12-inch-long bareroot stock for a site with shallow soils. Six-inch container stock may be more appropriate. When applicable, make sure that the nursery has properly pruned bareroot stock before it is shipped.

Do not twist the roots. Compact the root system along one plane, or plant the seedling with an occasional lateral root in a J, U, or L shape. Taproots must be in a natural position and must never be bent. (top)

Firmness of Soil Used for Backfill

Firmly tamp the soil around the planted seedling's roots, filling and firming the hole progressively from the bottom to the top. Do not tamp the soil with sticks or by heeling in the soil alongside the seedlings after they have been planted. Do not leave any air pockets or debris in the hole. Roots that are not in close contact with mineral soil will dry, killing the seedling. (top)