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Bare root saplings are trees and shrubs that have been lifted from the ground and have most of their soil removed from their roots. They are usually cheaper and easier to transport than container-grown, cell grown trees or rootballed hedging plants, but they also have some potential problems that can affect their establishment and survival. Some of the common problems with bare root saplings are:

- Poor root systems: Bare root saplings may have lost a significant amount of their roots when they were dug up, which can reduce their ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. They need regular watering and weed control to help them grow new roots and survive.

Here's all you need to know about Rowan jelly! Rowan jelly is a type of preserve made from the berries of the Rowan tree, which is also known as Mountain Ash, Witch Wiggin tree, Keirn and Cuirn. Rowan berries are bright red or orange and have a bitter and sour taste when raw, but they become sweet and tangy when cooked with sugar and pectin. Rowan jelly has a deep orange colour and a distinctive flavour that pairs well with game, lamb, cheese and bread.

Rowan jelly has a long history and folklore in Britain and other parts of Europe, where the rowan tree was considered sacred and protective by the Druids, Celts and Vikings. 

Bonsai is the the Japanese art of growing miniature trees and shrubs. Bonsai can be a rewarding and relaxing hobby, as well as a beautiful way of displaying trees. There are many different species of trees and shrubs that can be grown as bonsai, but some are more suitable than others. 

Some of the best UK native saplings for bonsai are -

• Scot's Pine (Pinus sylvestris): This evergreen conifer has long needles that can be reduced in size by pruning. It has a thick and textured bark that adds character to the trunk. It is very hardy and can grow in poor soils and windy locations. It is one of the most popular bonsai species in the UK .

Funding and grants for planting trees is currently available in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland). Below we've highlighted the main funding currently available for the creation of rural, urban woodland plantings, larger schemes and smaller scale schemes under 2.5ha..

As part of the UK drive to improve both air quality, natural habitat and reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, tree planting and woodland creation grants are available for planting projects depending on the size, location, and purpose of your project. Please read on to hear about the main grants and funding currently available.in England, Scotland, Wales.& Northern Ireland.

Cell grown trees are trees that are grown in containers or trays of compost cells, rather than in the ground. They have a complete and intact root system that allows them to be planted almost all year round and to establish quickly in the soil. Cell grown trees are often used for forestry, landscaping, hedging and environmental planting .

Some of the benefits of cell grown trees are:

• They can be planted in any season, except when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.
• They have a high survival rate and low transplant shock.
• They are easy to handle, transport and store.
• They are free from pests and diseases and comply with biosecurity standards.
• They are suitable for a wide range of species and planting objectives.

Cell grown tree seedlings and bare root tree seedlings are two different stages of development for young trees. They have some similarities and differences, such as:

• Cell grown tree seedlings are one or two year old plants that are grown in compost plugs or cells, while bare root tree seedlings are one year old plants that are grown in field beds and have their roots trimmed or undercut .
• Cell grown tree seedlings have a complete and intact root system, while bare root tree seedlings have a reduced root system that is meant to encourage root fibre .
• Cell grown tree seedlings can be planted throughout the year, while bare root tree seedlings can only be planted during the winter months when they are dormant .

Here are some steps to plant cell grown tree plugs:

 - Choose a suitable site for your tree saplings, preferably with good drainage, sunlight and shelter from strong winds.

 - Prepare the soil by removing any weeds, grass, stones or debris. You can also add some organic matter or fertilizer to enrich the soil. 

 - Dig a hole for each tree plug, about twice the size of the plug. You can use a bulb planter or a small spade to make the holes in the ground. It takes seconds.

- Place the tree plug in the hole, making sure it is at least 1cm below the top of the soil level.

There are many plants that can be used for evergreen hedging, depending on your preferences and growing conditions. Some of the factors to consider when choosing a hedging plant are:

 - The desired height and shape of the hedge

 - The soil type and drainage

 - The amount of sun or shade

 - The flowering or fruiting season and colour

 - The maintenance and pruning requirements

 - The wildlife value and attractiveness

There are many native trees that you can plant in your garden, depending on your preferences, space and soil conditions. Some of the best native trees for gardens are:

 - Silver Birch (Betula pendula): a graceful tree with white bark and yellow autumn leaves. It attracts many birds and insects and can grow in most soils .

 - Holly (Ilex aquifolium): an evergreen tree with glossy leaves and red berries on female plants. It provides shelter and food for wildlife and can be used as a hedge or a specimen tree .