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Planting depth of field grown liners affects qualityroots

Position the point where the top-most root emerges from the trunk within the top inch or so of the soil or substrate surface (see right photo). Planting deeper can cause problems in tree species that do not produce adventitious roots along the buried portion of the stem. Most tree species do not produce enough adventitious roots above the flare to develop a uniform root system. Stake trees if needed to develop a straight trunk or to keep trees erect until rooted in.

trident maple
Trident maple planted bare root from a fleld produced liner into a 15 gallon container one year ago at the correct depth.

trident maple
Trident maple planted bare root from a fleld produced liner into a 15 gallon container one year ago too deeply resulted in many roots growing over the main root flare.

trident maple
Trident maple planted bare root from a field produced liner into a field nursery one year ago at the correct depth.

trident maple
Trident maple planted bare root from a fleld produced liner into a field nursery one year ago slightly deep.