Quick answers to the questions we get most often. If your question isn't covered here, reach out at support@fruitbushes.com or (720) 630-3715.
What is a bare root plant?
A bare root plant is a dormant, soil-free plant. We dig the plants in late fall after they've gone dormant, shake off the soil, package the roots in damp paper and plastic, and ship them to you in that dormant state. You plant them, they wake up in spring, and they grow as if they've always been in your yard. Bare root plants establish faster, ship cheaper, and cost less than potted plants. They're how commercial growers and serious gardeners have planted berries for decades.
When do you ship?
We ship Monday through Friday during the cooler months. As temperatures rise toward the end of spring, we may switch to Monday through Wednesday only, so plants don't get stuck in a warm mail truck over the weekend and bake before they arrive. If you have a specific shipping concern for your area, contact us before ordering.
Which carrier do you use?
We use UPS 2-day or 3-day shipping for most orders. We sometimes use FedEx. We avoid USPS for the lower 48 because of slower transit times and dependability issues that can affect plant health. Orders to Alaska and Hawaii are typically shipped via USPS because UPS rates to those states are extreme.
What if my plants arrive damaged or dead?
Every order is covered by our Arrive-Alive guarantee plus a 90-day warranty. If a plant arrives damaged or doesn't leaf out within 90 days of planting, we replace it free of charge. See our Returns & Guarantee page for full details.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is free on orders of $75 or more. Orders under $75 ship at a flat rate of $15. Alaska and Hawaii orders ship via USPS at calculated rates due to UPS pricing.
What size are the plants you ship?
Plants are mature, field-grown bare root stock — typically 1- and 2-year crowns depending on the variety. Specifics for each variety, including size and root structure, are listed on the individual product page under Plant Details.
When should I plant?
Bare root plants are best planted in late fall through early spring while they're still dormant. The exact timing depends on your USDA zone. Each product page shows the recommended growing zones, and our Shipping & Planting page has more detailed planting timing guidance.
Do you offer wholesale pricing?
Yes. Orders of 100 or more plants qualify for wholesale pricing on raspberry, blackberry, and Pixwell gooseberry varieties. Visit our Wholesale page for pricing tiers and to request a quote.
Can I cancel or change my order?
If your order hasn't shipped yet, we can usually accommodate cancellations and changes. Contact us as soon as possible at support@fruitbushes.com with your order number. Once an order has shipped, we can't reroute or cancel it.
Do you ship internationally?
Not at this time. We ship within the United States only, including Alaska and Hawaii.