If you’re planting trees or hedging between autumn and early spring, rootball trees might be the perfect choice. In this guide to rootball trees & hedging plants, we’ll explain what they are, how we lift them and when they can be planted.

What are rootballs?

Rootball plants are field-grown but lifted with a ball of soil around the roots to protect the root system. They’re especially useful for evergreens and larger trees that don’t do well as bare root.

How do we lift rootball plants?

Rootball trees & hedging plants are lifted using a rootballing machine. This machine lifts the trees with a compact ball of soil that stays with the tree during transport and planting. Check out this video to see the rootballing machine in action!

When are they available and how can they be planted?

Rootball plants are only available during the dormant season, which usually runs from November to March. When planting dig a hole wide enough to fit the rootball comfortably, backfill the hole with soil and soil improver and water the plant in thoroughly. Stake the tree if needed. Most rootballs come wrapped in hessian or wire mesh, these are biodegradable materials and can be planted with the tree.

We hope this guide to rootball trees and hedging plants gave an insight into all their key features. Contact us if you’re looking for more advice, we’re happy to help you find the right plants for your space!

Read More:

1. Tree Planting: Is Autumn a good time to plant?

2. Tree Planting Tips: How to correctly install your trees

3. Tree Planting: When should you plant bare root and rootball trees?

4. Bare Root: How do you plant a bare root tree?

5. A Guide to Planting Bare Root Hedging