Receiving and Planting a Dormant Plant From Sooner Plant Farm
If you place an order with Sooner Plant Farm and your plants are shipped between October and March, there is a strong likelihood that your plants will arrive dormant. Dormant plants are in a natural resting phase, unlike the actively growing, leafy plants seen during the warmer spring, summer, and early fall months.
Planting dormant plants is very similar to planting actively growing plants; and in many cases, it is less stressful for the plant, resulting in reduced transplant shock. Dormancy allows the plant to focus energy on root establishment rather than foliage production.
Upon Arrival
If your plant arrives dormant, the first step is to water it thoroughly. Plants without leaves require significantly less water because transpiration occurs primarily through foliage. During dormancy, soil moisture is lost mainly through evaporation rather than plant uptake, so consistent, but not excessive, watering is key.
Site Selection and Drainage
Once you’ve selected the desired planting location, it is critical to ensure proper drainage. Dig the planting hole and fill it with water. Allow it to drain completely, then fill it again. A well-draining site should drain within 30 minutes.
If water remains after this time, choose a better-draining location or contact us for guidance on improving soil drainage through amendments or site adjustments.
Planting Instructions
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself.
- For plants that prefer drier or exceptionally well-drained soil, consider planting slightly higher by digging the hole ¼ to ½ the depth of the root ball and mounding soil around it.
- Take care not to bury the trunk or stem.
- After planting, water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets to help the soil settle.
- Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the plant, keeping it away from direct contact with the trunk or stem. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and protects roots from rapid freeze-thaw cycles.
Fertilization and Pruning
We do not recommend fertilizing dormant plants during late fall or winter. While dormant plants are not actively growing, fertilization at this time offers little benefit and may encourage growth at the wrong time of year. For best results, wait until spring, when temperatures warm and plants naturally begin pushing new growth.
Pruning is best handled with timing in mind. Spring pruning after the average last freeze date for your USDA hardiness zone is ideal for most plants, as it allows you to remove winter damage and shape the plant just before active growth begins.
Winter pruning can also be performed while plants are fully dormant, particularly for structural pruning or size control. However, we recommend avoiding pruning in late fall, as it may stimulate growth that could be damaged by early freezes.
Why Dormant Planting Works
Planting during dormancy gives plants valuable time to establish roots before spring growth begins. This often results in stronger, healthier plants and more vigorous growth once warmer temperatures return.
That’s all you need to know to successfully plant dormant plants from Sooner Plant Farm. With proper care, you can expect a healthy flush of growth in spring and summer. If you have additional questions, please contact us at info@soonerplantfarm.com or call 918-453-0771. We’re always happy to help!