Why should I order bare root trees instead of potted trees?
A: Bare root trees are exponentially cheaper than buying their potted counterparts. In addition, they lose virtually none of their roots during the digging and planting process – where a potted tree has to have about 75% of their roots cut to fit into the pot. Because of this, after a number of years a bare root tree will often pass a potted tree up in growth, even though the potted tree started out much bigger. They often look much better also. I have some trees that I spaded in about 8 years ago at 12-15’ tall.. Compared to the bare root trees I planted around them, the spaded trees are shorter now and really look kind of ratty.
When should I have my order in by?
A: We take orders until we are sold out. Some of the more popular varieties sell out almost immediately, some take a few months, and some will still be available at pickup in April. If you want to ensure you get what you want, sooner is always better. There is always a flood of people who cannot get what they want in March & April.
Once I place an order can it be changed?
A: Yes, as long as we have available stock on what you would like change it as much as you like. Order reductions can be done until March 1st. Order additions can be done all the way up until the date you pick your order up. We used to allow order reductions until the pick up date as well, but that was heavily abused so we can’t do it anymore unfortunately. We ended up disposing of a lot of trees because of it.
When do I pickup my order?
A: We don’t do set pickup times – you get to show up when it’s convenient for you. We anticipate being open every single day from March 29th, 2024 – May 12th, 2024 (or a little later). We are open 8am – 6pm Monday-Sunday, so you will have no issues choosing a pickup time that works for you. We do require pickup appointments, but the process is easy and we step you through it in Spring.
What will I receive at pickup?
A: Everybody will receive the following items at pickup: Invoice receipt (printed) and packing list (printed). There will be other printed literature available (planting instructions, deer spray recipe, etc…) that you will have the option to take if you like.
How are the trees packaged for pickup?
A: By default the trees will be in heavy garbage bags with mulch used to protect the roots from drying out. Sometimes we box some trees with moistened peat moss. On some occasions it may be a better route to go with a large wooden crate or large box instead, but if that is the case we will discuss that with you prior to pickup.
Will I need a truck or trailer for pickup?
A: The answer is almost assuredly no. These are bare root trees so a lot of trees fit into each bag. Yes, some of them can be 4’ tall or more, but that easily fits into a back seat, trunk, or bed of a pickup truck. If you have a larger order (200 trees or more) you may need a truck/trailer. But if that is the case I will explicitly tell you.
How soon should I plant them after pickup?
A: The soonest possible is always the answer. These are bare root trees, so the absolute most important thing is to not let the roots dry out. We protect the roots with moistened mulch so they can sit in the bags for a few days or so, but if you intend to wait longer than that discuss with me at pickup please. There are ways to keep them longer, but sooner is always preferred.
Are they in pots or do they have dirt on the roots?
A: These are bare root trees. None of the trees are in pots or in dirt.
I live further away, can somebody else pick up my order?
A: Yes, but you must arrange that with them yourself. We keep our customer list strictly confidential and do not share a list of people close by you who have orders with us.
Are there any restrictions on who can purchase?
A: No, there are not. You are free to purchase and resell if you like. All states require permits for selling – the permits vary by the state and by what you are selling. We do maintain a “do not sell” list and a number of nurseries share a “do not sell” lists between them. We do not sell to anybody who has outstanding bad checks with us or any other nursery, has attempted fraud with us or any other nursery, or was just a horribly rude or hostile person to deal with. You have to be extra special to get on this list, and the chances you are on that list and reading this is about zero 😊
If you have a history of reserving orders and then not showing up, or you setup orders but then ignore all further communication we may not sell to you either. That is handled on a case by case basis. One time is usually overlooked - more times than that and it is increasingly likely we won’t take any future orders, or if we do we may require an immediate deposit.
If you intend to resell any trees that is fine, but it is your responsibility to ensure you have the proper licenses and permits required by your state of residence.