Bare root planting is among the most forgiving methods for deciduous trees, provided the basics are followed. Soak the roots in water for 12–24 hours before planting. Dig a generous hole — wider than it is deep — and mound the base loosely. Spread the roots naturally over the mound without bending or cramping them. Backfill with quality well-draining soil, firm gently, and water in thoroughly with a diluted Seasol solution. The tree takes it from there.

Full dormancy in field-grown deciduous stock does not occur until the tree has experienced adequate chilling hours through winter. July represents the harvest-to-dispatch window when the plant is at its deepest dormancy — metabolic activity is at its lowest, and the root system is in optimal condition for relocation. Harvesting earlier compromises root integrity. This timing is not a logistical constraint — it is botanical precision.

Yes — with the right setup. Use a deep container (minimum 300mm for most species) with excellent drainage. A mix of 50% quality potting mix, 30% fine orchid bark (1–2mm particle size), and 20% perlite provides the structure and oxygenation bare roots require. Avoid standard heavy potting mixes — moisture retention in a closed container during early establishment can stress dormant roots. Water in with Seasol at planting, then allow the mix to approach dry before watering again.

All nine species in this collection perform best in temperate and cool-climate environments: the Southern Tablelands, Southern Highlands, ACT, Victoria, Tasmania, elevated inland NSW, and elevated South East Queensland. Species such as Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) and Parrotia persica (Persian Witch Hazel) particularly reward cool winters with enhanced autumn colour saturation. None of these species are suited to tropical, subtropical, or humid coastal environments. If you are in a marginal zone, contact us before ordering.

These grades refer to the commercial production classification used by Nationwide Trees. Premium grade indicates a well-established first or second-year root system at standard field size. Supergrade denotes above-standard root and shoot development for the plant's age — selected for particularly strong root ramification or above-average caliper. 2nd Year indicates a plant specifically in its second full growing season. All grades in this collection are production-quality bare root stock suitable for establishment planting.

Allow 4–6 weeks from planting before drawing any conclusions. Dormant deciduous trees can take several weeks to break bud, particularly if your soil is cold. To check root viability before bud break: scratch the surface of a small root with a fingernail — living tissue will be white or cream beneath the bark. Brown and dry tissue indicates a problem. If you have genuine concerns after 8 weeks with no visible bud movement, contact us directly — we stand behind our stock.

Tasmania: Yes, via our Plant Concierge Service, which manages all Bass Strait biosecurity and agricultural inspections. Please contact us for a quote before ordering. WA and NT: Yes, via our Plant Concierge pathway, subject to mandatory agricultural treatment and inspection. Additional costs apply — contact us before ordering to confirm. Note: unlike our Pinus genus products, there is no blanket prohibition on these deciduous species for WA or NT.