With the arrival of November comes bare root season, the perfect time to plant dormant trees, shrubs and hedging plants that have been lifted straight from nursery beds. Though bundles of leafless plants may look uninspiring, this is one of the most rewarding and ecologically sound planting opportunities of the year.

Bare root plants are easier to transport, affordable and will establish more vigorously than container grown plants, while avoiding the use of peat and plastic.

Planting during the dormant months allows roots to settle and strengthen over winter, giving them a head-start come spring. And if you are feeling indecisive and not quite ready to plant, the season continues until March, so there’s still plenty of time to make the most of it.

Hedges make one of the wisest bare root investments as they require a large number of plants to establish. More than simply marking boundaries, a hedge transforms the microclimate of a garden as it will slow down wind and create the sheltered environment that most fruit and vegetables demand.

Additionally, hedges provide a habitat for many beneficial insects, which in turn support healthy crops.

If you intend to enclose your garden with a hedge, go native. Planting a mixed native hedge makes most sense for a whole host of reasons. Native plants are well adapted and thrive in our climate whilst tying in with our natural heritage. They also provide food and shelter for a wide range of wildlife along with providing all year interest and beauty.

Hazel, hawthorn, Guelder rose and spindle are just some of Ireland’s wonderful native hedging plants. Blackthorn and willow tend to be vigorous so best not to include in the establishment stage. The National Biodiversity Data Centre provides excellent resources exploring the benefits of native hedgerows and guidance on planting them (biodiversityireland.ie).

There is almost always room for fruit in a kitchen garden and now is the perfect time to assess your needs and plant. Apples, pears and plums are just some of the trees that can be planted bare root into well-prepared soil now.

Apple trees are particularly versatile and easy to grow, thriving as cordons, fans, espaliers, step-overs or standards, with fruit that can be eaten fresh, cooked, juiced or stored.

Pears and plums may be more challenging, but their rewards are great when they establish well. For all fruit trees, choose varieties with some disease resistance to suit Ireland’s wet climate. Plant carefully, spreading the roots comfortably and positioning the graft union just above soil level.

Mulch with compost or leaf mould to retain moisture and suppress weeds, stake young trees against winter winds, and prune immediately to establish a strong framework that will provide abundant harvests for decades.

Soft fruit

Soft fruit also benefits from bare root planting. Raspberries, sold as canes, settle in well when given plenty of room and good airflow. Blackcurrants, redcurrants and gooseberries prefer slightly more sheltered spots, where the protection of a hedge can make all the difference.

Blueberries are a little more demanding, needing acidic soil, but a raised bed or large container filled with ericaceous compost will keep them happy.

For those with smaller gardens or paved spaces, bare root planting can still be part of the plan. Strawberries, dwarf apple trees and columnar apple trees are all available bare root and adapt well to container growing.

Large pots filled with good quality multi-purpose compost, soil and garden compost will provide a balanced growing medium, while regular watering and organic feeds ensure plants thrive and yields are generous.

Containers do dry out more quickly so it pays to keep an eye on moisture even in winter.

Planting bare root

Timing is important with bare root plants. They should be planted soon after arriving and never left to dry out. Once in the ground, watering is essential to settle the soil around the roots, even if the weather is damp. A mulch after planting will help regulate temperature and maintain moisture.

Bare root season may lack glamour compared with the sparkle of spring, but it is a great time for purchasing low-impact stock that will bring beauty and bounty to your garden for years to come.

I harvested some main crops later than planned, leaving bare soil that I’d prefer to cover with a green manure rather than just mulch. What are my options? - Margaret, Co Clare.

Yes, however, the only option is field beans as they establish quickly and tolerate colder soil temperatures, unlike most winter cover crops. Scatter seeds directly or sow in rows 15 cm apart with 10 cm between seeds and 2 cm deep.

As they grow, they will help protect soil from erosion and nutrient loss, improve fertility through nitrogen fixation, and contribute to overall soil structure and health.

Before the plant sets next year, cut them down to the base, leaving the roots in the ground to fix nitrogen and allow the decomposing plant matter to naturally fertilise your soil.

Harvest now: Brassicas such as kale and cabbage, root vegetables including carrots, parsnips and beetroot, plus leeks and winter salad leaves are in season now.

Sow now: If you missed planting garlic, broad beans, overwintering onions, and peas last month, they can still be sown early this month, weather and soil conditions permitting.

Start to grow: Strawberries, dwarf apple trees and columnar apple trees are all available bare root and adapt well to container growing.

Do you have a gardening question? Email

icl@farmersjournal.ie or post to Irish Country Living, Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12.