Planting Shrubs in Winter: When to Plant vs. Store

If you can dig a proper hole (3x root ball width), plant anytime the ground isn't frozen. Well-cared nursery stock handles cold planting.

If You Must Wait

Store outdoors in sheltered spot near north wall—not in garage (reduces cold hardiness). Water root ball every few days, especially evergreens. Mulch heavily to buffer soil temperature swings.