Storing bare root raspberries before planting is crucial to ensure their survival and success in the garden. Here are some steps you can follow to store them properly:
1. Prepare for storage: Before storing the bare root raspberries, make sure they are in good condition. Remove any damaged or diseased roots and trim long roots to a manageable length. This will help promote healthy growth once planted.
2. Keep them moist and cool: Bare root raspberries should be kept moist and cool until you are ready to plant them. One way to do this is by wrapping the roots in damp newspaper. This helps retain moisture and prevent the roots from drying out. Place the wrapped roots in a plastic bag to further seal in the moisture. It’s important to store them at a temperature between 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. A cool basement or refrigerator can be suitable storage locations.
3. Soak before planting: Just before planting, it’s beneficial to soak the bare root raspberries in a bucket of water for up to one hour. This allows the roots to rehydrate and absorb moisture, preparing them for the planting process. It’s important not to soak them for too long, as this can lead to overhydration and potential rotting of the roots.
4. Planting time: Once you have soaked the roots, it’s time to plant them in the desired location. Prepare the soil by loosening it and removing any weeds or debris. Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots without bending or crowding them. Gently spread out the roots in the hole and cover them with soil, making sure not to bury the crown of the plant.
5. Water and mulch: After planting, water the raspberries thoroughly to help settle the soil and provide moisture to the roots. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plants. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature.
6. Care and maintenance: Once the bare root raspberries are planted, it’s important to provide them with proper care and maintenance. Regularly water them, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist. Monitor for pests and diseases, and take appropriate action if needed. Prune the canes as necessary to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
Personal experience: I have successfully stored and planted bare root raspberries in my own garden. I found that keeping the roots moist and cool during storage greatly improved their survival rate. Soaking the roots before planting helped them rehydrate and establish themselves more quickly. By following these steps and providing proper care, my raspberries thrived and produced abundant fruit in the following seasons.
