How to Transplant Shrubs

Transplanting woody plants, like shrubs, is different from transplanting flowers. Special consideration should be given to several factors if you decide to transplant your shrubs to a new location. Browning, unattractive plant growth and spindly, weak plants can result if the proper care is not taken.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sharp shovel
• Water
• Burlap
• Sharp knife or shears

1. Decide when to transplant your shrub. Transplant woody plants like shrubs and trees only in the spring, before budding begins, or early fall, immediately after the plants lose their leaves.

2. Choose where to put the transplanted shrub. Choose a spot with similar conditions to the original location, for best transplanting results.

3. Prepare the area where the shrub will be placed. The hole should be two or three sizes larger than the shrub's root ball, with soft soil. If the soil is clay, rough up the sides with the shovel.

4. Dig up the shrub. Use a sharp shovel so that damaged roots are cleanly cut. Leave as much dirt in the root ball as possible, though shrubs can be transplanted bare root.

5. Plant the shrub in the new location. Fill the hole with soil, but don't cover the stem. Leave the stem at the same level it was in the original location.

6. Water thoroughly. Daily watering until the new growth begins, will help your transplanted adjust to its new location.

Tips & Warnings

• Wrap the root ball in burlap or another water retaining material, if you are not able to plant the shrub immediately.
• Water the shrub daily for several days before transplanting; this will help avoid transplant shock.
• Remove any damaged roots with a sharp knife or shears. Clean cut roots will grow back, while rough damage will lead to root death.
• Marking the stem before removing the shrub will let you place the shrub in the same orientation that it had originally.
• Never use plastic to wrap the root ball. This will rot the roots and suffocate the plant.

Resources

• More tips on gardening by Zone and plant species