Beech saplings...

I think that mycorrhizal fungi would be the best addition. I am not sure that rooting hormone helps transplants (as I think it encourages callus, rather than root per se), I would also avoid Bonemeal and the like (although traditionally recommended for bare root planting) as it seems that it interferes with mycorrhizal fungi development, and it is they that symbiotically assist the plant roots in their development.

 

Well they're in the ground, and we've kindly been given a deluge of rain. Will keep a very close eye on them over the next few months - thanks for all your advice!!

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