This step-by-step guide covers how to correctly store a bare root tree prior to planting using the "heeling in" method. You can watch the video version of this guide below.
This step-by-step guide covers how to correctly store a bare root tree prior to planting using the "heeling in" method. You can watch the video version of this guide below.
To learn how to plant Bare Root trees correctly, see our other guide on How to Plant a Bare Root Tree.
What's in this guide
What "heeling in" means and when it is necessary
When you order a bare root tree, it will arrive with a bag in place to protect the roots. We do recommend planting your tree out as soon as possible, however, if you are not able to plant straight away, extra care needs to be taken with bare root trees to prevent their roots from drying out. The roots need to be kept moist but not soaking wet.
If it’s just a few days, you can store the tree somewhere cool and dark with the bag still in place, such as a garage or shed. You can remove the bag to check if the roots are still moist. If the roots are feeling dry, submerge them in a bucket of tepid water for a few minutes. Shake off any excess water and re-cover with the bag. Make sure the roots aren’t dripping wet to prevent them from freezing in sub-zero temperatures.
For better and longer protection, we recommend removing the bag and temporarily planting the tree in some soft soil. In the planting world this is what we call “heeling in”. You can either heel your tree in the ground or using a large container. If you have multiple trees, these can be heeled in together.
Equipment List
- Bare root tree(s)
- Spade & trowel
- Plot of soft garden soil OR a large sturdy container and planting compost (if you can't heel in the ground)
- Water & watering can
How to Heel in the Ground
Step 1: Dig a shallow hole or trench in some soft soil
If you are heeling in one tree or a bundle of small trees, dig a shallow hole in some soft soil, ideally a well-draining soil in a shady and sheltered position. If you have several larger trees, it may be easier to dig a long, shallow trench. Either way, the hole should be large enough to easily accommodate the size of all the tree roots.
Step 2: Lay your tree(s) in the hole, cover the roots with soil, and water
Remove the bag(s) and place your tree(s) at an angle so that the roots are in the hole, with the trunk(s) resting against the side or corner. For small bundles of trees, make sure they are packed together and that their root collars are roughly the same level. Then, cover the roots with soil. Try not to cover the collar or graft union of the tree(s). Gently firm the soil down to remove any air pockets and give the roots a soaking of water to keep them moist.
How to Heel in a Container
If there’s a reason you can’t heel in the ground, for instance if you’re limited on space or if the ground is frozen, too hard or prone to water-logging, then you can heel your tree in the same way using a large, sturdy container and some planting compost.
Step 1: Choose a suitable container and add a layer of compost to the bottom
Choose a sturdy container that is going to be large enough to easily accommodate the size of all the tree roots. Something with decent drainage would be ideal, for instance a large plant pot with drainage holes. Add a layer of planting compost to the bottom of the pot, a few inches deep.
Step 2: Place your tree(s) in the container, cover with compost, and water
Place your tree(s) in the container, so that the roots are inside with the trunk(s) leaning against the side. Make sure any loose ends are all tucked in. If it’s a small bundle of trees, make sure they are packed together and that their root collars are roughly the same level.
Cover the roots with compost until you have reached the root collar level. Try not to cover the collar or graft union of the tree and gently shake the trunk to help distribute the compost around the roots.
Check all the roots are covered, then gently firm the compost and give it a good soaking of water. Store the container somewhere cool and sheltered, for example in a garage or against a north-facing wall.
How long you can keep Bare Root trees heeled in for
Bare root trees can be left heeled in for about a month or so, but should be planted out into their permanent planting locations before they come out of dormancy.
When you’re ready to plant, gently loosen the compost or eath around the roots using a trowel, taking care not to damage them. Then lift the tree out and if you need to transport it, you can re-cover the roots with the bag it came in.
