The beauty of bare-root - bare-root plants

Sunset, Jan, 1995 by Lynne Oconne

For largest plants, select grade No. 1 roses from a bin. The roots should be unknotted, unbroken, and developed. On all roses, look for three or more strong, well-spaced canes. Healthy canes are green and hard. Roses sold in packages can be grade No. 1, but they are usually smaller in size. Some packaged roses are of a lesser grade--read the label carefully. Grade No. 1 roses range from $4 to $15. Nonpatented varieties cost less than patented ones.

Ferns and Perennials. Unless you discover a variety that is unusual or hard to find, there is generally no advantage to buying ferns or perennials bare-root. However, occasionally you'll find root divisions of perennials such as coreopsis and baby's breath. Less common are ferns such as cinnamon, leatherwood, maidenhair, and royal. Roots are sold packaged. Cost: about $3 each.