07 Apr Get Ready to Dig and Divide: Techniques for Transplanting Your Favourite Plants
One of the most satisfying experiences in gardening is transplanting a favourite plant or flower and watching it thrive in its new home.
But before you get your shovels and start digging on fresh soil, there are a few key steps that can help ensure your plants successfully take root in their new environment.
What is Transplanting?
Transplanting is the process of moving a plant from its current location to another.
Reasons for transplanting a plant include:
- Providing more space for the plant to grow
- Exposing the plant to a different type of soil or sunlight
- Moving plants to a more favourable climate
- Relocating a plant to a more aesthetically pleasing spot in the garden
Whatever the reason, this process should be done slowly and properly to ensure the health of the plant.
The Perfect Timing
The best time to transplant a plant is when it is dormant, or not actively growing.
Although, generally speaking, early springtime is the ideal season for transplanting. This is when most plants are still in their dormant phase, and the soil is still soft enough to dig.
However, the best time for transplanting a particular plant will depend on its species. Consider researching when the ideal time to transplant your specific type of plant is before beginning the process.
For instance, if you’re transplanting shrubs or trees, fall is a better time to move them as the roots tend to respond better during this season.
On the other hand, if you’re transplanting perennials or annuals, you’ll want to wait until the weather is cooler. This is to ensure the plant is not in full bloom and the roots are not stressed.
Note: It is ideal to transplant in early spring and fall. However, it is still important to check for the soil’s temperature before you transplant.
How to Properly Transplant
While the time of transplanting might differ from plant to plant, the steps of transplanting them stand the same. Properly replant and relocate your crops by following these:
- Carefully remove the plant from its pot or nursery.
- Inspect its roots. Check if it came off with the soil still intact, in this case, carefully remove them gently apart. If the roots heavily rest at the bottom of the pot, loosen them thoroughly.
- Dig a hole in its new home with enough space for all of its roots. Gently place the plant inside its new home whilst lightly patting down the surrounding soil.
- Pat down the area around the plant to ensure that no air pockets are present.
- Water and mulch your newly transplanted seedling or garden plant to make sure that it will survive through its transition period.
Of course, this is just a general guide for transplanting plants. It is always best to look into specific requirements for the particular species of plant you are wanting to transplant. This includes checking on the pH level of your soil, making use of compost, etc.
The Takeaway
Transplanting a plant can be one of the most rewarding experiences in gardening. But remember that in transplanting, timing and gentleness are key! Make sure you do it at the right time of year and handle it with care. Once your plants settle in their new home, they should be ready to thrive and grow as strong as before! Good luck with your transplanting endeavours!
Are you just starting out on your gardening journey and need some help? Kel Lake Garden Centre can provide you with the extra guidance and advice you need. Check out our other posts for more tips and tricks for getting started.
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