Root Washing & Why

Root washing is the process of removing all potting media from a plant’s roots. It helps native plants establish faster by untangling circling roots, prevents introducing invasive pests like jumping worms, and allows roots to immediately access the surrounding soil. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Check out the following video on transplanting native plants and why root washing is a good part of that process. This comes from a local organization Adapt: Community Supported Ecology based in Washtenaw County, MI.

Step-by-Step Root Washing Process

  1. Soak and Loosen: Soak the root ball in a bucket of water for a few minutes up to several hours. This hydrates the roots and loosens the potting media. [1, 2]
  2. Wash Gently: In a cool, shaded area, use a garden hose with a gentle spray or your hands to wash away the media. Be careful not to allow the roots to dry out. [1, 2]
  3. Correct the Structure: Once the roots are bare, untangle any circling roots and spread them outward like spokes on a wheel. Prune any overly thick or damaged roots. [1, 2]
  4. Plant and Water: Dig a wide, shallow hole and spread the bare roots over a small mound of native soil. Backfill with native soil and soak thoroughly. [1, 2]

Best Practices for Establishment

Because washing causes a brief period of shock, newly washed plants require extra care in their first few weeks. [1, 2]

  • Water Thoroughly: Give washed plants a slow, deep watering right after installation.
  • If you are transplanting or sharing a mature plant: Trim away top growth down to just a few leaf nodes. Roots have an easier time establishing without having to maintain all the original top-growth.
  • Maintain Soil Moisture: Water deeply and regularly (once or twice a week) for the first month to help roots adjust to the native dirt.
  • Mulch: Add 1–2 inches of woodchip mulch around the base (but not touching the crown) to retain moisture and keep roots cool. [1, 2, 3]

Cited Resources

  1. Hopton-Villalobos, J. “Wash First: Successful Strategies for Replanting Natives.” Cuplet Fern (Florida Native Plant Society), July 12. https://www.cupletfern.org/articles/wash-first-successful-strategies-for-replanting-natives
  2. Chalker-Scott, Linda. “Bare Root Primer.” SlideShare, Washington State University Extension. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/bare-root-primer/15701272
  3. In The Garden With Amy. “Root Washing, Part 1: Why Root Wash?” YouTube Shorts. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8TakiRgefhY
  4. Strobl, Silvia. “Wash the Roots, Protect Your Garden: A Simple Step That Stops Invasive Pests.” The Peterborough & Area Master Gardeners, May 18, 2026. https://peterboroughmastergardeners.com/2026/05/18/wash-the-roots-protect-your-garden-a-simple-step-that-stops-invasive-pests/