What defines balled and burlapped plants?

Balled and burlapped plants refer specifically to those that are grown in field nursery rows, where they are then removed from the soil with a substantial root ball intact and wrapped in burlap for protection. This method helps to preserve the roots and minimize transplant shock when the plants are moved to a new location. The burlap stabilizes the soil around the root ball, making it easier to handle and transport while keeping the roots moist.

The other options do not align with the definition of balled and burlapped. Plants grown in plastic pots refer to container-grown plants, which do not have the traditional balled root system. Bare-root plants are those that do not have any soil or burlap surrounding their roots, and thus do not fall under the balled and burlapped category. Finally, while some balled and burlapped plants may be grown in greenhouses, this does not specifically define what a balled and burlapped plant is, as the essence of the term is focused on those that have been prepared for transplanting with a root ball covered in burlap.