Why Bare Root Native Plants Are a Restoration Workhorse
Bare root plants offer one of the most efficient ways to establish native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous species across large landscapes.
Because plants are shipped dormant and without soil, bare root material allows restoration professionals and landowners to install diverse plantings at scale.
👉 View current availability in our Bare Root Native Plants collection
When to Order Bare Root Material
Bare root season moves quickly. Inventory is typically available for:
- Late fall installations
- Early spring dormant plantings
Ordering early helps secure species availability — especially for woodland restoration projects.
When to Plant Bare Root Natives
Ideal conditions include:
- Cool soil temperatures
- Adequate soil moisture
- Minimal drought stress
Bare root woody plants should be installed before leaf-out in spring or after dormancy begins in fall.
Bare Root vs Plugs vs Seed
Bare Root
- Best for woody establishment
- Cost effective
- Large project friendly
Plugs
- Faster establishment than seed
- Good for targeted diversity
Seed
- Most economical per acre
- Critical for prairie restoration
👉 Explore planting material types in our All Native Plants collection
Storage and Handling Tips
- Keep roots moist but not saturated
- Store in cool, shaded conditions
- Install quickly after delivery
Planning Large-Scale Restoration Projects
For transportation corridors, solar installations, and municipal restoration work:
👉 Review options in our IDOT & Illinois Tollway Mixes collection
Need Help Planning?
Our team regularly assists partners with:
- phased installation strategies
- invasive species transition planning
- species selection for complex sites