Choosing the Right Plant Format for Your Project
Planting windows move quickly and availability can change week by week. Understanding the difference between bare root and rootball stock helps you choose the format that suits your project, your programme and your budget. Both have their place in trade planting, but each performs differently in the ground.
Here’s a clear guide to help you choose the right option.
What Are Bare Root Plants?
Bare root plants are lifted from the ground during the dormant season without soil around the roots. They are lightweight, cost‑effective and ideal for large volumes.
Best for:
- Long hedging runs
- Woodland blocks
- Large native schemes
- Projects where budget and quantity matter
Benefits:
- Lower cost per plant
- Quick to plant
- Easy to transport
- Excellent establishment when planted in season
Limitations:
- Seasonal (typically November to early spring)
- Less immediate impact
- Must be planted promptly on delivery
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Explore Our Trade ServicesWhat Are Rootball Plants?
Rootball plants are lifted with soil around their roots, wrapped in hessian to keep the structure intact. These offer more maturity and stronger form.
Best for:
- Evergreen screens
- Mature hedging
- Instant structure
- Commercial entrances and high‑impact plots
Benefits:
- Greater size and presence
- More resilient planting
- Better for evergreens that dislike bare root handling
Limitations:
- Heavier and more labour‑intensive
- Higher cost
- Still seasonal, like bare root
Bare Root or Rootball: Which Should You Choose?
If cost and speed are key, bare root is a strong choice. If the project needs instant screening or year‑round structure, rootball is often the better fit. Many designers and contractors use a mix — bare root for long runs and rootball for entrances, corners and focal points.
Seasonal Considerations
Bare root and rootball plants are available only during the dormant season. Larger container‑grown stock is available year‑round but comes at a higher price.
If you’re working on a tight programme, sending your plant list early helps secure the right formats before stock runs low.
Need Help Choosing?
Send us your plant list and we’ll recommend the best format for your scheme based on timing, scale and impact.