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

Transplanting Shrubs

Landscapes are dynamic – changing with the season, over time and as our gardening goals evolve. Save those special shrubs by transplanting them into a better space that will accommodate their mature size, growing needs and your landscape design.

Move shrubs in the 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. The rabbits did some unwanted pruning on our viburnum, eliminating the need for this. Dig a trench around the shrub slightly larger and deeper than the desired rootball.

Undercut the rootball with a shovel. A sharp spade, hand pruner or lopper will help you cut through larger 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.

A bit more information: Increase your chance of success by digging a rootball sized for the plant you are transplanting. Dig a root ball 12 inches deep and 9 inches in diameter for 2 feet tall shrubs, 14 inches deep and 11 inches in diameter for 3 feet tall shrubs and 16 inches deep and 12 inches in diameter for 4, 5, and 6 feet tall shrubs.

Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars


March 27, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

How to Start a Garden for Beginners
Register now

April 3, 2024
Garden Trends 

Franklin Public Library, Franklin, WI

April 10, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

Container Gardening Throughout the Year
Register now

April 11, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

7 Steps to Managing Water Where it Falls in Your Yard
Register now

April 17, 2024
Landscaping for Birds: 
A Gardener’s Perspective

Glendale, WI 

April 18, 2024
Be a Waterwise Gardener
Golden Rondelle Theater, Racine, WI
Register now

April 20, 2024
Pruning Hydrangeas and Other Shrubs 
Pasquesi Home & Gardens, Lake Bluff, IL

April 27, 2024
Ridges & Rivers Book Festival
Viroqua, WI

April 28, 2024
Flowering Trees and Shrubs
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI

May 1, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

Ornamental Fruits and Vegetables
Register now

May 9, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

How to Plant Your Rain Garden
Register now

WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Learn More

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Enter to Win The Birds & Blooms' Ultimate Gardening Guide !

ENTER NOW