Years ago that was how we used to buy most perennial plants by mail order. They came wrapped in damp newspaper and sometimes we potted them up but often they went straight out into the garden and were fine. I have been pleased to see more nurseries sending plants out this way instead of in plastic pots.
I hope it's a trend that continues. I am so ashamed of the pile of black plastic pots I have accumulated over the years! (And not that many years at that).
At this time of year I divide plants, and replant small pieces of root into the garden, so I wouldn't be too worried about direct planting into the soil especially in a new bed.
Tom Stuart Smith planted the latest phase of Arcadia at Chatsworth with mainly bare root stock, which seems to have worked out well. Some plants suit the technique a bit better than others, so they still used some containers for some varieties (they used compostable rice-based pots and peat-free compost for those).
"What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour".
I just ordered a bare root astilbe chocolate shogun, peony’s and agapanthus (and some dahalia tubers) from farmer gracy. There was 15% off (ends tonight at midnight) so I just had to, you know how it is. It my first time getting bare root perennials and using Farmer Gracys so interested to see how it works out, it seems good value. due to be delivered in March sometime.
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At this time of year I divide plants, and replant small pieces of root into the garden, so I wouldn't be too worried about direct planting into the soil especially in a new bed.
Tom Stuart Smith planted the latest phase of Arcadia at Chatsworth with mainly bare root stock, which seems to have worked out well. Some plants suit the technique a bit better than others, so they still used some containers for some varieties (they used compostable rice-based pots and peat-free compost for those).