Transplanting Flowers, Trees, and Shrubs
When planning a landscape design, it is important to remember that transplanting will at some point almost certainly occur. Some DIY landscapers change their landscape layout seasonally, while others keep the same look for years. Even with a constant plant lineup, however, chances are good that certain plants will need to be transplanted to maintain optimal health. Aggressive groundcovers may have to be transferred, flowering bulbs will require seasonal re-tilling (a perfect opportunity for a transplant), and planting flats full of annuals purchased from nurseries will require a transplant to the flowerbed. Trees may require transplanting if their branches pose a threat to nearby structures. Homeowners may believe that these transplants simply mean digging up an old plant to transfer it to a new destination. In truth, there are a few principles that can help ensure each transplant is successful.
It may seem obvious, but DIY landscapers would do well to know as much as possible about a plant's optimal growth conditions before transplanting it. How many hours of sunlight per day should the plant receive? Is the pH of the soil in its new destination similar to its old spot? What kind of drainage will be available for the plant's roots? For smaller plants and flowers, will there be competition for nutrients and water with much larger, established trees? Some individual plant varieties are also much better candidates for transplanting than others. Walnut trees, for example do not tolerate transplanting well?it is up to homeowners to ensure that new transplants re-enter soil that is similar in every respect. The exception here is plants that are being transferred precisely because they are failing in their original surroundings. Here too homeowners must be careful of transplanting for the wrong reasons. Drainage, fertility, and soil pH should all be addressed prior to the transplant in order to see if the plant's condition can be improved. Pest control is also extremely crucial. If an infested plant is transferred to a new area, it may spread its host to other plants.
When an ideal destination has been found, many trees and shrubs may be transplanted with relative ease. Dig the new hole prior to excavating the old plant?this helps roots by ensuring they spend the maximum amount of time in contact with soil. Also, avoid breaking up the soil at the bottom of the new hole, since loose soil may contribute to rot. When extracting the old tree, shrub, or flower, make certain to keep the root mass as whole as possible. Larger trees may require roots to be cut, however, due to their large size and weight. If this is the case, be sure to make clean cuts. Mulch around a new plant can help greatly with aeration in the adjustment period.
Tags: plant, transplant, tree, shrub, homeowner, landscape
