What is bare-root season and why does it matter?
For anyone planning a new hedge this season, understanding bare-root season is essential.
This annual planting window is driven by natural growing cycles and offers the ideal opportunity to establish hedges efficiently, economically and at scale.
When is bare-root season?
Bare-root season generally runs from late autumn through to early spring, when plants are dormant.
Understanding dormancy
Bare-root season occurs when deciduous plants enter dormancy, usually between late autumn and early spring. During this period, plants have shed their leaves and paused active growth, allowing them to be moved with minimal stress. Because the plant’s energy is focused on its root system rather than producing new foliage, it is better equipped to cope with transplanting.
The lifting season
Once plants are dormant, growers can begin lifting them from the field. This is known as the lifting season. Hedging plants are carefully removed from the ground, with their roots left exposed rather than placed into containers. This process is only possible during dormancy, which is why bare-root plants are available for a limited period each year.
Nature’s planting window
The months between autumn and early spring create the ideal planting window for bare-root hedging. Cooler temperatures and increased soil moisture help roots establish before the demands of spring growth begin. Planting within this timeframe gives young hedges the best possible start.
Stronger establishment
One of the biggest advantages of bare-root season is establishment. Plants can focus on developing healthy root systems immediately after planting, helping them settle into their new environment and supporting vigorous growth once warmer weather arrives.
The importance of planning ahead
Because bare-root plants are only available seasonally, forward planning is essential. Our customers, which include landscape professionals, developers, councils and gardeners, who use our Wyevale Hedges website to place their orders, often schedule projects well in advance to secure the varieties and quantities they need.
Following natural growing cycles
Bare-root production works in harmony with nature’s growing cycles. Plants are field-grown, lifted at the right time and planted during the period most suited to root development. This natural process has been relied upon by growers for generations.
UK production expertise
The UK has a long tradition of producing high-quality bare-root hedging plants. Experienced commercial growers, like us, understand British conditions and growing requirements, helping ensure strong, healthy stock that performs well in our nation’s landscapes.
Final thoughts
Bare-root season is nature’s planting season. Driven by dormancy and natural growing cycles, it provides the ideal opportunity to establish hedges at scale.
With optimal planting conditions, strong establishment potential and the support of UK production expertise, it remains the preferred choice for many professional and domestic planting projects.
Like to buy some bareroot hedging?
Please call or email us: 01432 845200, enquiries@wyevale-nurseries.co.uk or visit Wyevale Hedges.