Bare root strawberries are dormant plants shipped without any soil, consisting only of the crown—the central growing point—and the attached root system. This method of transport allows the plants to be moved while they are in a state of hibernation. Because the roots are exposed, they are highly susceptible to drying out, necessitating immediate and proper storage upon arrival. The plants must remain cool and dormant until conditions are right for planting.
Immediate Steps Upon Arrival
Immediately remove the plants from their shipping container and check the roots for damage or decay. Healthy roots should feel firm and plump with a light brown color. Trim away mushy or foul-smelling roots, which indicate rot, using clean shears.
The roots must be rehydrated, as they likely dried out during transit. Place the roots into a bucket of room-temperature water for a soak lasting 30 to 60 minutes. This initial hydration revives the plant’s moisture levels before long-term storage or planting. Only submerge the roots, keeping the crown above the water line to prevent rot or fungal issues.
Maintaining Dormancy Through Refrigeration
Refrigeration is the most reliable method for storing bare root strawberries when planting must be delayed by a few days up to four weeks. This environment mimics the cold, dark conditions of late winter to maintain dormancy. An ideal storage temperature is consistently between 32°F and 40°F, which prevents the plant from breaking dormancy prematurely.
To manage moisture, keep the roots damp but not soaking wet. Wrap the roots in a slightly moistened medium, such as sphagnum moss, peat moss, or dampened newspaper, before placing them inside a plastic bag or container. The plastic enclosure maintains high humidity to prevent the roots from drying out. Do not completely seal the container; ventilation holes are needed for air exchange to prevent mold buildup.
Temporary Outdoor Holding
If planting is delayed for more than a few weeks, or if the permanent planting site is not yet prepared, “heeling in” can be used for temporary outdoor holding. This technique involves burying the roots in a trench to protect them from temperature fluctuations and desiccation. Select a location that is well-shaded and protected from direct sun and wind.
Dig a V-shaped trench wide and deep enough to accommodate the root mass. Place the plants into the trench at an angle, laying them nearly flat, and backfill with loose soil or sand. The entire root system must be covered, but the crown must remain fully exposed above the soil line to prevent fungal infection. Keep the soil consistently moist, ensuring the area drains well to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Preparing Roots for Planting
The final step before placing the strawberries in their permanent location involves preparations to ensure a smooth transition and rapid establishment. If the plants have been in storage for an extended period, or if the roots feel dry, they should be re-soaked in water for 30 to 60 minutes. This final hydration ensures that the root cells are fully turgid and ready to absorb nutrients from the soil.
Trim any overly long or damaged roots using a clean, sharp tool. Trimming the roots to a manageable length, often around six inches, encourages the development of new feeder roots. When placing the plant into the prepared soil, the crown must be positioned precisely at the soil level, ensuring it is neither buried too deep nor sitting too high.