Bare Root Season: The Best Time to Plant on a Budget

While we love the impact of instant hedging, there is a special place in our hearts for the “bare root” season. Running typically from November to March, this is the most cost-effective way to plant a hedge, especially if you have a large perimeter or a rural boundary to fill.
What exactly is a “Bare Root” plant? As the name suggests, these are plants that are dormant (not actively growing) and are lifted from the soil without any earth around their roots. Because they are lightweight and easy to transport, the cost per plant is significantly lower than pot-grown or root-balled alternatives.
The Benefits of Planting in Winter Many people assume that gardening stops when the temperature drops, but for hedging, winter is the prime time.
- Economic Efficiency: You can often plant ten times the distance for the same price as a container-grown hedge.
- Easy Establishment: Because the plants are dormant, they experience less “transplant shock.” They spend the winter settling their roots into the soil, ready to explode with growth the moment spring arrives.
- Environmental Impact: Bare root plants require less plastic and water during the nursery stage, making them the “greenest” choice for eco-conscious gardeners.
At our Garstang nursery, we specialize in hardy, British-grown bare roots like Hawthorn, Blackthorn, and Beech. These species are perfect for creating “wildlife corridors” that offer food and shelter for local fauna while providing a sturdy, natural boundary for your property.
Steve shared his expertise, experience and guided us through what we needed. All installed as promised by the team, and the 1 little thing that got missed was fixed the very next day...which is often when you realise someone is true to their word. Now to watch it grow!
Went to World of Hedges to buy a hedge for my front garden and I couldn't fault the guy who served me. Very enthusiastic and passionate about his job. I asked him what hedge would not lose their leaves, be low and easy to maintain, good for wildlife and would be able to grow round my existing plants? He gave me a few options taking me to have a look at each type. When I decided which one to choose I asked him how many he thought I needed and how to plant and look after them. As I noted this down, I couldn't write fast enough he was that passionate about the hedge and how to look after them. I think photographs say a thousand words and I am so happy with the choice I made. Very impressed with the service I will definitely be going back there again. Thanks World of Hedges
We wanted mature shrubs for a border at the side of our driveway. We went to World of Hedges and were immediately impressed by the choice and quality of the plants in the nursery. With help from Steve and his team, we selected Pittosporum Elizabeth and Eleagnus. They are now planted and are exactly what we wanted. Steve and his team have been ultra-professional, knowledgeable and very friendly. We are totally delighted with the entire service package.
Amazing customer service from Steve and his team. Nothing was too much trouble. The advice and time spent with us explaining what our options were and suggestions of what would work in our garden was fantastic. Can't recommend them highly enough. The installation team which came out were great, super quick and left everywhere immaculate. Steve's knowledge and guidance was marvellous and so helpful – Top bloke!
Steve and team planted a Griselinia hedge (New Zealand privet) at front of house today, replacing spindly, unattractive Hornbeam supplied by builders. Soil dug out and replaced with good quality topsoil, well built up around plants. Good healthy plants from own nursery. Looks great already! Everyone friendly and knowledgeable. All left tidy. Happy to recommend.

