Planting balled and burlapped trees: tips and timing

What are balled and burlapped plants?

Balled and burlapped (B&B) plants are trees and shrubs lifted from the ground with a solid ball of soil around their roots. The root ball is typically wrapped in hessian or a wire basket. This protects the roots during transport and gives the plant a strong start in your garden. Garden centres and RHS partner nurseries stock them mainly in autumn and early spring.

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When to plant B&B stock

The ideal planting window runs from October through March, as long as the ground isn't frozen. During these months the plant is dormant and channels all its energy into developing new roots. Never plant during hard frost or when the soil is waterlogged. A slightly moist soil on an overcast day? Perfect conditions.

Autumn planting beats spring planting. The soil retains warmth from summer, so roots get to work straight away. By spring the plant has already built a solid foundation.

Preparing the planting hole

Dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball and slightly deeper. Roughen the sides with your spade so roots can penetrate the surrounding soil more easily. Mix the excavated soil with compost at roughly a 3:1 ratio.

Check drainage by filling the hole with water. If it drains within an hour, you're fine. If it sits there, add a gravel layer at the bottom or pick a different spot.

Getting the depth right

The top of the root ball should sit level with the surrounding ground. Planting too deep is a common mistake that causes stem rot. Lay a straight stick or handle across the hole to verify the height.

Step-by-step planting

Only remove the wrapping once the root ball is in the hole. Hessian can stay; it decomposes naturally. Wire baskets should be cut open at the top so they don't constrict the trunk. Backfill in layers and gently firm each layer with your foot. Avoid stamping, as that drives out all the air.

Water generously right after planting. Allow 20 to 30 litres per tree. This settles the soil around the roots and eliminates air pockets. Then apply a mulch layer of about 5 to 8 centimetres. Keep mulch a hand's width away from the trunk.

Staking and protection

Larger trees need a support stake for the first two years. Position it at an angle on the windward side and secure the trunk with a flexible tie. Check the tie regularly because a tight tie cuts into bark.

Aftercare in the first year

The first year is critical. Water weekly during dry spells, including in autumn. Many people forget that trees still need water in September and October. Hold off on feeding until the second spring with an organic fertiliser. The compost you mixed in at planting time is sufficient for now.

After planting, only remove damaged or crossing branches. Leave the canopy alone. The plant needs all its foliage to recover from the move.

Common mistakes to avoid

Letting the root ball dry out before planting is the biggest culprit. Stand B&B plants in a bucket of water on arrival if you can't plant them the same day. Store them in a sheltered, shady spot.

A planting hole that's too small is the second classic error. Take the time to dig generously. Those extra ten minutes of work pay off for years in a healthier plant.

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