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snipper erie, PA(Zone 5a) Mar 26, 2005

I received a order in the mail (bare root trees, shrubs) way to early to plant in my zone 5, still snow on the ground. Any Ideas on how I can keep them alive for 2-3 weeks untill the ground thaws and I can get them planted. They are still in the plastic shipping bags, haven't opened them yet. I was thinking about planting them in pots and keeping them in a sunny window and transplanting when the weather improves.

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Farmerdill Augusta, GA(Zone 8a) Mar 26, 2005

I f they are dormant, bare root plants, just keep them cool. Someplace in the dark where the temp does not exceed 50 degrees F. You do not want to break dormancy before planting.

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Badseed Hillsboro, OH(Zone 6a) Mar 26, 2005

I totally agree-basement or garage or even a protected spot in the yard. Biggest cause of loss is usually too much water and not enough warmth.

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snipper erie, PA(Zone 5a) Apr 02, 2005

I left the plants in the plastic bag they were shipped in and put them in a dark cool corner of my basement. It looks like it will be awhile untill I get to plant them as it is sleeting and 2-4 inchs of snow is expected tonight. And this is no April fool joke. Thanks for your advice, Gil.

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kerry_in_ky Dry Ridge, KY(Zone 6a) Apr 07, 2005

Depending on their size, I have potted things up in 3 gallon pots and let them come out as they liked transferring them into their final home as soon as I was able. So for I haven't seen any negative effects from doing this in fact, they seem to appreciate the extra time to develop new roots.

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bettydee La Grange, TX(Zone 8b) Apr 07, 2005

You can "heel" them together in pots. The damp potting soil keeps the roots from drying out. If it going to take longer than a few weeks, then doing what kerry_in_ky suggested is best. Just be sure none of the roots are exposed. With trees, since the roots can be stiff and long, put some plastic on the floor, pour some potting mix on the plastic, place the roots horizonally on the soil, pour enough soil to cover the roots, fold the bottom of the plastic over the soil and carefully make a roll. Tie it up with string. Much like making a burrito. Stand the roll on a support of some sort.

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snipper erie, PA(Zone 5a) Apr 09, 2005

After getting hit with a 14inch snow fall last weekend and no power for 33 hours, this weekend is suppose to be in the 50-60's. The plants look to be in fair condition, I kept them in a dark cornor of my basement were its dark an pretty cool so I hope to plant them today or tomorrow. Thanks to you all for your advise, I 'll keep it in mind if I get an early shipment again. Gil

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