Tender Transitions: Transplanting Shrubs and Vines
By Katherine O'Brien
This is the best time of year to transplant shrubs and vines because the air is cooler. But the key to success is keeping the roots intact and not allowing them to become dehydrated. A plant won't even know it's been moved during an easy transition.
Transplant with More Confidence
In Santa Fe the fall transplanting season begins early October and extends through November. Dormant shrubs and vines are less likely to experience shock if their root system is removed when dug. Since the air is also cooler now, the amount of dehydration plants may experience from being transplanted is reduced.
Prepare the new site beforehand. Make a hole twice as wide as the container and the same depth. Have extra compost and topsoil handy in case the hole is actually larger than the root ball. Add soil amendments to the soil at the base of the hole; water.
Preparing for the Move
- Transplant Immediately to New Site
The longer a plant waits on the ground, the more likely the root hairs will dry out. Any plant will better accept a transplant if transferred to a damp hole.
Amend the removed soil with compost and fertilizer. For fertilizer we recommend Yum Yum Mix, Superphosphate and Soil Mender® brands. Create a well around the plant that's big enough to accommodate a good supply of water.
Let a hose saturate the newly planted area. Then apply root stimulator such as Superthrive mixed with Sea Com. Most plants take hold within two or three weeks with biweekly waterings.
By using these guidelines your new honeysuckle vines and lilac bushes should thrive through the coming winter. Just a little forethought and tender care will get them going for next spring.
Read My Little Garden Patch - gardening column by Cindy Bellinger.
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