Bare roots should be planted with what bottom hole shape?

Bare roots should be planted with what bottom hole shape?

• A. Concave shaped hole
• B. Mounded bottom hole
• C. Extremely deep hole
• D. Flat bottom hole

Answer: (B)

When putting bare-root stock in the ground, the hole should have a small mound at the bottom. Placing the roots on this mound lets them spread downward and outward as you backfill, promoting good root-to-soil contact and ensuring the crown stays at the proper soil level. A mound bottom also helps with drainage and prevents roots from sitting on a flat bottom where they can become crowded or damaged. A concave bottom would collect water and increase the risk of root rot. An extremely deep hole can bury the plant’s crown or roots too far, hindering proper establishment. A flat bottom doesn’t provide a natural cradle for the roots and can lead to uneven backfill or air pockets. Therefore, the mounded bottom hole is the best choice.

When putting bare-root stock in the ground, the hole should have a small mound at the bottom. Placing the roots on this mound lets them spread downward and outward as you backfill, promoting good root-to-soil contact and ensuring the crown stays at the proper soil level. A mound bottom also helps with drainage and prevents roots from sitting on a flat bottom where they can become crowded or damaged.

A concave bottom would collect water and increase the risk of root rot. An extremely deep hole can bury the plant’s crown or roots too far, hindering proper establishment. A flat bottom doesn’t provide a natural cradle for the roots and can lead to uneven backfill or air pockets. Therefore, the mounded bottom hole is the best choice.