Bare Root

Plants that have been dug out of the ground when dormant. The soil is shaken free, washed and stored until shipment. Usually referring to decidious shrubs and trees, including small fruit trees. Perennials such as roses and daylilies, also commonly come this way. All these plants are sold in their dormancy. Mail order companies use this "bare root" method to ship their plants. The plant is wrapped in cardboard or plastic and the roots are protected with something like damp sphagnum moss. Garden centers and nurseries may also sell bare root stock.