How to Transplant Trees or Shrubs

Transplanting  is easier than you might think, but it’s all about a few key factors. Remember that when you transplant it is essentially like creating a new plant,  especially if you dramatically reduced its root system. Water and starter fertilizer will be critical to its success.

1. When can I transplant?
   1. Transplanting can be done in two seasons Early to Mid-Spring and Early to Mid-Fall.
   2. Moving plants during this time makes sure that we have viable water for the plants to use when we shock them.
2. What do I need to do in order to transplant?
   1. Prepare before you transplant by watering your plant for one full week to fully saturate the root system.
   2. Have your Holganix Bloom on hand to spray on the root system after you have transplanted, planting mix
   3. Have a sharp flat bladed shovel (Flat Spade), hose to water, a burlap square the size of the root ball desired, hatchet or something to cut roots
3. Transplant Time
   1. To begin, measure the height and the width of the plant.
      1. The root system will extend twice the width of the height of the plant
         1. Your new root system should be the closest you can get to twice the width as possible.
      2. Begin to go around the circumference of the plant with the spade
      3. After begin to slice deeper into the root back working toward the center of the plant
         1. Some plants have tap roots so it may be harder to get out
            1. This is where a hatchet comes in handy
         2. After a while you will be able to move the plant if you push on it.
            1. Note that the plant can be very heavy so have people to help you or ways to help yourself
            2. Sometimes tying up the plant with twine is a good way to have an easier time handling it in this step
         3. Place your burlap square close to the transplant and move it onto the fabric
            1. Tie the burlap around the base of the root system.
            2. If you have Sod Stakes, they come in handy if you have a very shallow root system like a Rhododendron.
               1. Use the sod stakes to hold the burlap in place.
               2. Gently press the sod stakes into the fibrous roots.
               3. Eventually you will be able to let go of the burlap and it will be held by the sod stakes
            3. Find your new location for your plant
               1. Since you have the plant out of the ground
                  1. Use your spade shovel to gauge the depth of the hole
               2. Move your transplant to your new location and use some new planting mix to combine with the existing soil
                  1. After the plant is in the ground and level
                     1. Being to fill in with the new planting mix/existing soil
                     2. Pack the soil in with your shovel and pack with your hands
                     3. Make sure the soil is not covering the root flare of the plant
                        1. If you do, the soil will suffocate the plant from breathing
                        2. The root flare is the lowest point on the stem that gradually becomes the roots
                           1. Often this will look like a quarter loop
                        3. Water the soil and root system in with your hose or soaker hose
                        4. Apply Holganix after you watered the plant since it works the best at maximum saturation
                        5. Remove the rope from the plant and clean up your site

4. Congratulations you have just learned how to transplant a shrub or tree!
5. Continue to water your transplanted shrub regularly!