Hello. This past Spring I purchased some trees (sticks actually) from a conservation group here in Michigan. I planted 3 Black Walnut trees (12" tall) immediately, because they actually had leaves on them. The others I was afraid would get run over by mowers because they were just sticks. I have Silver Maples, Honey Locust, White Birch, Dogwood, American Chestnut, Butternut and Tulip Poplars. I planted each of them in a 5 gallon bucket and they have done very well. Lots of leaves, looking healthy, etc. My question is whether to leave them in the buckets for the winter? or go ahead and plant them? If I do plant them - I would like to fence around them to protect against deer damage. Should I wrap burlap or cones around the fencing? What is the best winterization method in this case? I live in Zone 5, Michigan. Thank you for your advice.
Roots will get colder in pots than in the ground. And if you plant right away uncut roots will be likely to extend into the soil this fall. Wash the potting soil off beforehand and pull open any circling roots, plant immediately. Mulch after planting. No mulch touching stems.
