By Erika O’Krafka, Grower at Royal City Nursery
If you’ve ever brought home a beautiful new tree or perennial only to watch it struggle after planting, you’re not alone. Transplant shock is one of the biggest challenges new plants face when moving from a pot to the ground. But here’s the good news: there’s a simple, science-backed way to help your plants thrive from day one. It’s called Root Rescue.
What is Root Rescue?
Root Rescue is a water-soluble powder containing a powerful mix of 18 different types of mycorrhizal fungi. These beneficial fungi form a symbiotic partnership with your plant’s root system, meaning they live together and help each other out for life.
Here’s how it works:
The fungi attach themselves to the roots.
In exchange for some of the plant’s natural sugars, they expand the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients.
The result is a stronger, more resilient root system and a healthier, happier plant overall.
Think of it as giving your plants a best friend for life underground, one that boosts their strength and helps them adapt to changes in temperature, soil, and moisture.
Why do we recommend it?
At Royal City Nursery, we’ve been carrying Root Rescue for over a decade and for good reason. The product was developed and tested right here in Guelph, with research from the University of Guelph showing significant improvements in plant survival and health.
In one long-term study, trees planted with Root Rescue had dramatically lower transplant losses compared to those planted without it. Municipal arborists and landscapers across Ontario have also reported similar success stories, including fewer plant deaths and stronger growth in newly planted trees.
We often describe it as giving your plants a glass of orange juice in the morning, a one-time boost that lasts a lifetime.
Here’s how it works:
The fungi attach themselves to the roots.
In exchange for some of the plant’s natural sugars, they expand the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients.
The result is a stronger, more resilient root system and a healthier, happier plant overall.
Think of it as giving your plants a best friend for life underground, one that boosts their strength and helps them adapt to changes in temperature, soil, and moisture.
Which Plants Benefit?
At Royal City Nursery, we’ve been carrying Root Rescue for over a decade and for good reason. The product was developed and tested right here in Guelph, with research from the University of Guelph showing significant improvements in plant survival and health.
In one long-term study, trees planted with Root Rescue had dramatically lower transplant losses compared to those planted without it. Municipal arborists and landscapers across Ontario have also reported similar success stories, including fewer plant deaths and stronger growth in newly planted trees.
We often describe it as giving your plants a glass of orange juice in the morning, a one-time boost that lasts a lifetime.
Here’s how it works:
The fungi attach themselves to the roots.
In exchange for some of the plant’s natural sugars, they expand the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients.
The result is a stronger, more resilient root system and a healthier, happier plant overall.
Think of it as giving your plants a best friend for life underground, one that boosts their strength and helps them adapt to changes in temperature, soil, and moisture.
How to Use Root Rescue
It’s incredibly easy to use with no digging or complicated steps required.
Mix it with water.
Add the powder to your watering can and stir. (Pro tip: don’t wear white shoes, it’s a dark, sludgy mix!)Apply during or after planting.
Water your new plant with the solution right after planting, or even a few weeks later if your plant looks stressed.One and done.
Once the fungi connect with your plant’s roots, the relationship lasts for life with no reapplication needed.
Choosing the Right Package
Root Rescue comes in three different sizes, orange, blue, and purple, and the only difference is how much product you get:
- Orange (22.5 g): Great for one or two trees or a small garden bed.
- Blue (45 g): Ideal for a few larger shrubs or small landscaping projects.
- Purple (180 g): Best for landscapers or large garden installations.
Because Root Rescue contains living organisms, only open what you need. Once the seal is broken, it’s best used within about three months, as exposure to air and humidity will start to activate the fungi.
In one long-term study, trees planted with Root Rescue had dramatically lower transplant losses compared to those planted without it. Municipal arborists and landscapers across Ontario have also reported similar success stories, including fewer plant deaths and stronger growth in newly planted trees.
We often describe it as giving your plants a glass of orange juice in the morning, a one-time boost that lasts a lifetime.
Here’s how it works:
The fungi attach themselves to the roots.
In exchange for some of the plant’s natural sugars, they expand the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients.
The result is a stronger, more resilient root system and a healthier, happier plant overall.
Think of it as giving your plants a best friend for life underground, one that boosts their strength and helps them adapt to changes in temperature, soil, and moisture.
The Bottom Line
Root Rescue is one of those rare gardening products that’s both simple and incredibly effective. Whether you’re planting a single tree or redoing your landscape, it gives your plants the underground support system they need to thrive.
If you’re replanting, refreshing your garden, or just want to give your new additions the best possible start, Root Rescue is worth it.
You can find Root Rescue right here at Royal City Nursery, or learn more at rootrescue.ca.
And of course, if you have any questions, come chat with us. We’re always happy to help your roots and your plants grow strong. 🌿
About Erika O’Krafka
Erika O’Krafka brings decades of horticultural expertise to Royal City Nursery, where she has been a valued team member since 1992. A graduate of the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Erika’s specialties include Integrated Pest Management (IPM), growing, hybridization, and classical pollination techniques. Before joining Royal City Nursery, she honed her skills at Canola Research Station and Sheridan Nurseries, building a strong foundation in both research and practical plant production. Her deep knowledge and hands-on experience make her an integral part of the nursery’s growing operations and plant care excellence.
About Royal City Nursery
Guelph, Ontario’s only third-generation, full-service garden centre! We specialize in creating custom outdoor living spaces and unique solutions for all your garden, landscape, and seasonal decorating needs! At our new greenhouse, located between Guelph and Cambridge, we are the garden centre of choice for discerning homeowners, landscapers, and designers.