Most people think of spring as the start of planting season. The weather warms up, the soil softens, and everything begins to bloom. But if youโre working with bare root trees or shrubs, waiting until spring might slow you down. In many cases, planting during winterโwhen your trees are still dormantโcan give them a major head start once the growing season arrives.
At Cold Stream Farm, weโve seen how winter planting helps bare root stock establish earlier, experience less stress, and grow stronger by the time spring rolls around. Understanding how and why this works can help you plan your next planting project with confidence.
What Does Dormant-Season Planting Mean
Dormant season planting means setting your trees in the ground when they are not actively growing. This period typically starts after the leaves have dropped in the fall and continues through the winter until early spring. During dormancy, the treeโs energy is focused underground instead of above it. The branches rest, but the roots continue working, slowly expanding and anchoring into the soil whenever the ground isnโt frozen.
By planting during this time, you take advantage of the natural rhythm of the tree. Instead of struggling to establish roots while supporting leaves and buds, the tree can concentrate on getting comfortable in its new home. When spring finally arrives, the roots are ready to send up nutrients for quick and healthy top growth.
The Advantages of Planting in Winter
1. Roots Start Growing Early
Even though itโs cold outside, soil temperatures often stay warm enough for root growth. When you plant in winter, your trees have several months to spread their roots quietly before the heat of spring. That means when the growing season begins, theyโre already settled in and ready to thrive.
2. Less Stress on the Tree
Bare root trees are easiest to handle during dormancy. Since they donโt have leaves, they lose less water through transpiration and can be transported and planted with minimal stress. Planting while the tree is at rest helps it adjust gradually instead of forcing it to compete for energy between growing roots and supporting new foliage.
3. Lower Water Needs
Winterโs cooler air and higher humidity help the soil retain moisture, which means your newly planted trees are less likely to dry out. This reduces watering requirements and makes it easier to keep young roots hydrated until spring rains take over.
4. Easier Scheduling and Better Selection
Many nurseries, including Cold Stream Farm, harvest and ship bare root trees during the dormant season. Ordering early ensures youโll have the widest choice of species and sizes. It also gives you a chance to get everything planted before springโs busy season starts.
5. Improved Long-Term Health
Because winter-planted trees experience less shock and have more time to adjust underground, they often show stronger first-year growth and better survival rates. The early root establishment helps them resist drought, disease, and temperature stress later in the year.
Why Cold Soil Isnโt a Problem
Itโs natural to worry that planting in cold weather might hurt your trees, but as long as the ground isnโt frozen solid, itโs actually beneficial. Cool soil is rich in oxygen and moistureโexactly what roots need to grow. The cold also slows evaporation, keeping the soil damp and stable around the roots.
As long as the roots stay moist and insulated, they can quietly continue to develop even in low temperatures. When spring warmth returns, the trees already have a strong underground foundation that gives them a noticeable advantage over trees planted later.
How to Plant Bare Root Trees in Winter
Winter planting doesnโt require much extra effort, but a few simple steps can make a big difference.
Check the soil before digging. Make sure the ground isnโt frozen or soggy. You should be able to dig easily with a shovel.
Keep the roots moist. If you canโt plant immediately, store your trees in a cool, sheltered spot such as a garage or shed. Cover the roots with damp sawdust, peat moss, or mulch to prevent drying out.
Plant at the right depth. The root collarโthe point where the trunk meets the rootsโshould sit just below the soil surface. Planting too deep can suffocate the roots, while planting too shallow can expose them to cold air.
Water thoroughly. Even in winter, a deep watering after planting helps settle the soil and remove air pockets around the roots.
Mulch the base. A layer of mulch two to three inches deep will help insulate the soil, conserve moisture, and protect roots from temperature swings. Just be sure to leave a small gap around the trunk to avoid rot.
What to Expect When Spring Arrives
Trees planted in winter often show faster and stronger growth once the weather warms. Because their root systems have already started to establish, they can immediately take advantage of springโs light, moisture, and nutrients. Youโll likely notice quicker leaf-out, sturdier stems, and less wilting compared to trees planted later in the season.
Another advantage is that your project is already complete before the busy spring planting rush begins. You can spend the spring enjoying your landscape instead of racing against time to get new trees in the ground.
Getting Ready for Winter Planting with Cold Stream Farm
At Cold Stream Farm, we grow and ship bare root trees and shrubs that are harvested at the ideal stage of dormancy. That means theyโre ready for winter and early spring planting when handled properly. Our trees are well-suited for habitat restoration, reforestation, windbreaks, and home landscapes throughout the Midwest.
Planting in winter may seem unconventional, but itโs one of the most effective ways to give your trees a healthy start. With less stress, steady hydration, and early root growth, your bare root stock will greet spring fully prepared to flourish.
Start your planting project now.
Browse Cold Stream Farmโs wide variety of bare root trees and shrubs available for winter shipment. With the right timing and preparation, you can set your property up for a thriving, vibrant spring. Contact us today at (231) 464-5809 or visit us online for more information!
