Create a Garden in White

Bare root plants are dormant perennials shipped without soil around the roots.

They are lifted during dormancy and shipped in a resting state. This allows for:

• Stronger root systems

• Healthier long-term establishment

• Safer, more efficient shipping

They may look simple — even unimpressive — when they arrive. This is normal.

Bare root plants ship during the appropriate planting window for your region.

For spring, this is typically late March through April.

We ship based on planting safety — not calendar demand.
If you order seeds and bare roots together, they may ship separately.

Your plants will arrive:

• Dormant

• Without soil

• Wrapped to maintain moisture

• Carefully packed for protection

Roots should feel firm, not mushy. Slight dryness is normal. Dormant plants do not look like potted plants — they are meant to wake up once planted.

Plant as soon as possible after arrival.

If you need to wait a few days:

• Store in a cool (not freezing), dark place

• Keep roots slightly moist (never soaking)

• Plant within 3–5 days

Sometimes — but not always.

Many perennials prioritize root development in year one.
Peonies especially may take 1–2 seasons to bloom fully.

Patience is part of perennial gardening.

Dormant plants often appear lifeless.

As long as:

• The crown is intact

• Roots are firm

• There is no foul odor

The plant is viable.

If you’re unsure, email us with photos before planting.

Shipping is calculated by real weight.
We do not offer free shipping on bare root plants at this time.

We currently ship within the continental United States only. We do not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, or internationally.

(Some states may have plant restrictions; we comply with applicable agricultural regulations.)

We do not ship internationally.

Orders may be canceled before shipment.

Once shipped, bare root orders cannot be canceled or returned.

Bare root plants are living, perishable products and are sensitive to planting conditions.

We ask that you inspect your plants immediately upon arrival.

If your plant arrives:

• Damaged

• Moldy

• Clearly non-viable

Please contact us within 5 days of delivery with photos.

If approved, we will:

• Replace the plant (if inventory allows), or

• Issue store credit

We do not offer refunds or replacements for:

• Plants that have been in the ground longer than 30 days

• Improper planting depth

• Weather events (frost, heat, drought)

• Wildlife damage

• Failure to bloom in year one

• Overwatering or poor drainage

Once planted, the outcome is influenced by soil, light, watering, and local conditions beyond our control.

For questions or concerns, please email:

hello@properuseful.com

Include:

• Your order number

• Clear photos (if applicable)

• A brief description of the issue

We respond as quickly as possible, especially during active shipping windows.