Nick Hopwood
10 Jan 2021
At the beginning of 2021, we planted around 5,000 bare-root trees, with the ambition of growing them on into the largest trees we would eventually sell.
Early in the process, we decided that once our polytunnel was built, our next priority would be to get trees in the ground. This approach would give us time to grow and train them, so that when we were ready to start selling our trees and hedging, we would have the full complement of sizes.
We purchased our bare-root whips from a reputable, UK-based supplier, certified as plant healthy, and with no imports-so we could be confident they were disease-free. This gave us the chance of avoiding problems such as ash die back, which has devastated so many trees. By sticking with a single supplier, we also hoped to minimise any risk of cross-contamination. Encouragingly, recent reports suggest that many rowans may be developing resistance to ash die back, which is very promising.
Once we received our trees and hedging, we began planting immediately, using canes for support and training, and guards to protect them from animals that might forage on them. From our experience planting in fields at other nurseries before starting on our own, we were already very familiar with the process. However, for our own trees and hedging, we allowed twice the spacing we had seen used elsewhere, to ensure they had plenty of room to grow.
The benefits of field growing are as follows:
Stronger root systems. Trees develop a deep, natural root structure in real soil, making them more resilient once planted in their eventual home. The roots are also less prone to circling or becoming pot-bound, which can limit long term growth.
Larger, healthier trees. Field-grown trees generally develop more growth each season than container-grown ones. They're supported by the natural soil ecosystem - microorganisms, worms, and mycorrhizak fungi.
Lower watering needs requirements during growth. Unlike container trees, which can dry out quickly, field-grown stock benefits from consistent moisture retention in the ground. This means there is less dependance on artificial irrigation systems.
Improved hardiness and acclimatisation. Trees grown outside in open ground are exposed to wind, temperature changes, and seasonal shifts from the start. This makes them tougher and better adapted to local planting conditions.
Cost efficiency. Growing in the ground can be more space-efficient and less resource-intensive than container production. There is no need for pots, compost, or potting facilities passing the cost saving onto the consumer.
Higher quality for certain species. Some species (especially larger decidous trees and hedging plants) respond particularly well to being field-grown, with straighter stems and better form.
Lift and transplant flexibility. Field grown trees can be lifted bare-root in the dormant season, making them easier to transport, cheaper to sell, and quicker to plant in bulk. The bare-root planting often has higher success rates in the right season.