• slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide

Transplanting Shrubs

Moving trees and shrubs can be tricky and heavy work.  Make the move in spring before growth begins or in fall as the plants go dormant for greatest success.

Loosely tie the branches of the shrubs to prevent damage and keep them out of your way.  Dig a trench around the shrub slightly larger and deeper than the desired rootball.

Undercut the rootball with the shovel.  A sharp spade, hand pruner or lopper will make the job easier especially for larger or tougher roots. 

Slide a piece of burlap or canvas under the rootball.  Ask a friend or neighbor for help with larger plants.  This is easier on your back and reduces the risk of dropping the shrub and damaging the rootball. 

Set the shrub in a hole wider, but the same depth of the rootball.  Carefully cut away or slide the tarp away from the shrub.  Then back fill the hole with the existing soil.

A bit more information: Increase transplanting success with proper post transplant care.  Water the plants thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil are crumbly and moist.  Mulch the area around the plant with a 2 to 3 inch layer of shredded bark or woodchips.  Be sure to keep the mulch away from the base of the shrub and trunks of trees.

Related

Upcoming Webinars & Appearances


March 25, 2023
OCMGA Annual Garden Conference
Appleton, Wisconsin

March 26, 2023
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, Wisconsin

March 29, 2023
FREE WEBINAR: 
Gardening Basics to Boost Your Success
Register now

April 1, 2023

REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, Wisconsin

April 5, 2023
FREE WEBINAR: 
What's New - Discover
New & Unique Plants!
Register now

April 11, 2023

Southwestern Indiana Master Gardener Association's 2023 Speaker Series
Darmstadt, Indiana
 

April 18, 2023
FREE WEBINAR: 
Growing a Bountiful Harvest even when Time, Space & Budget are Limited

Register now

April 20, 2023
SC Johnson Golden Rondelle Theater Speaker Series
Racine, WI
Register now

April 22, 2023
Pasquesi Home & Gardens
Lake Bluff, IL

April 25, 2023
Frederik Meijer Gardens
Grand Rapids, MI

Watch Melinda's past webinars ON DEMAND

Learn More

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Enter to Win Melinda's Container Gardening Tips & Techniques DVD set

ENTER NOW