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What to do with live, young berry plants #889150

Asked November 01, 2024, 8:09 AM EDT

I ordered the below items (catalogue names) from Gurney's with a late fall/early winter shipping estimate. I assumed I would receive dormant roots for overwintering, but I received three live plants in soil. My plan had been to stick them in insulated raised beds for the winter but I'm concerned doing that would kill the plants. -Semi-Dwarf Northland Half-High Blueberry Plant -Heritage Raspberry Plant -Black Magic™ Blackberry Plant Given that it's already getting pretty cold, especially at night, I thought I could plant them in small containers and keep them indoors, but in a well-lit area, and lightly watered over the winter and then get them in outdoor containers once spring comes. I'm not sure if you all give advice, but would love to know if this seems like a good plan or if there's a better route.

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi Patrick,

You can go ahead and plant those in the yard. The ground won't freeze ( the soil) foe another four weeks and maybe more. Water them in well and mulch around them with a thick layer of four inches or so of leaves or straw to insulate the soil and thus keep the roots growing as long as possible. Make sure you cage the plants entirely or they will get eaten this winter by our endless rabbit population. 

Since your plants are potted that means they have seriously girdling roots. You must gently untangle the roots so they circle but instead spread out . Your plants should be fine if you make sure you mulch and water them ( keep watering through November).

Best of luck and let me know if you have any more questions,

Sally Granath

Hennepin County MG

An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 03, 2024, 8:11 PM EST

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