In message , Frank
Booth Snr writes
But after unwrapping them the roots and soil look very dry. The buds on
the stems look plump and I can see some green on the upper ones. Does
that mean the plants are alive, or are the roots dead, but the stems
are still alive but will die eventually if the roots have dried out
too much?

I assume the roots where wrapped in plastic or inside a plastic bag type
thing? That seems to be the normal way nowadays.

The roots will look a bit dry, but it doesn't seem to be a problem. I
give them a bit of a soak in a bucket of water, and then get them in the
ground ASAP. If you can't plant them, then heel them in until you can,
they will find like that for months if necessary
--
Chris French