March is the final opportunity to plant bare root shrubs. (Image: Getty)
only have a few weeks left to plant three popular and before the window closes until next .
Experts warn that March is the final opportunity to plant – a cost-effective way to fill gaps in , create hedges, or introduce new trees.
With spring approaching, the temperature is beginning to rise, meaning will soon wake from dormancy.
Once this happens, struggle to establish strong roots, making it too late to plant until November.
According to gardening experts at , bare-root plants can only be planted during their dormant period, which runs from November to March.
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These plants are great for gardeners looking to create privacy. (Image: Getty)
Unlike , bare-root varieties are grown in open soil and are sold without containers.
This makes them cheaper to buy, easier to transport, and better for the environment as they don’t require plastic pots.
They also establish faster, as their roots are in direct contact with the soil, helping them absorb moisture and nutrients more efficiently.
But timing is crucial. If wait until April or beyond, the warming temperatures will trigger new growth, making it too late to plant bare-root varieties successfully.
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The plants also add structure to the garden. (Image: Getty)
How to plant bare root trees and shrubs
For those who want to make the most of the final planting window, experts recommend:
- Choose a mild day – Avoid planting in frozen, waterlogged, or excessively windy conditions.
- Soak the roots before planting – Submerge them in tepid water for an hour before planting.
- Prepare the ground – Remove weeds and dig a wide hole at least twice the size of the root system to help roots spread.
- Plant at the right depth – The point where the trunk meets the roots should be level with the soil surface.
- Firm the soil and water well – Press down the soil to eliminate air pockets and water thoroughly.
For larger trees or exposed areas, staking may be necessary to prevent strong winds from damaging young plants.
If gardeners fail to plant before March ends, they will have to wait until next winter. (Image: Getty)
The three must-plant varieties before it’s too late, according to the experts
For gardeners looking to fill borders, create privacy, or add structure to their gardens, these three plants should be planted before March ends:
- Common Beech (Fagus sylvatica) – A hardy, deciduous hedge that provides year-round interest, turning a coppery-gold in autumn.
- Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) – A wildlife-friendly hedge with white blossoms in spring and red berries in autumn, perfect for attracting birds.
- Common Yew (Taxus baccata) – A dense, evergreen hedge that grows slowly but neatly, ideal for structured borders and privacy screens.
These species offer long-term benefits, helping to define garden spaces and provide shelter for wildlife.
What happens if you miss the deadline?
If gardeners fail to plant bare root varieties before March ends, they will have to wait until next winter when plants enter dormancy again.
Alternatively, they can opt for container-grown plants, which can be planted year-round, but are more expensive and often take longer to establish.
Experts stress that acting now will save money, as bare root plants are typically cheaper and easier to grow than their potted counterparts.
For more gardening advice, more tips can be found .