If the fast-growing buddleia has become too large, it often has to be moved to a new location. This is particularly true for old buddleias that no longer fit into their original perennial beds. You can find out how such a senior can be successfully relocated and what you need to pay attention to in the following article.
How to successfully transplant an old buddleia?
To successfully transplant an old buddleia, this should be done in autumn or spring when it is not flowering or budding. Cut it back by a third, dig up the root ball, plant it in a new location and water thoroughly.
Requirements for successful implementation
First of all: Simply digging up the old buddleia and replanting it in a new location is not a good idea. In such a case, the shrub would most likely soon lose its shoots and leaves and, if unlucky, would even wither. To prevent this, the following requirements should be met for successful growth:
- Replant buddleia only in autumn or early spring.
- The bush may no longer bloom or may not sprout yet.
- The weather must not be too warm, but also frost-free.
- Before moving, cut the buddleia back heavily.
It is best to move on a day that is not too warm and not too cold with an overcast sky, then the risk of drying out is reduced.
Why shouldn't you transplant buddleia in summer?
In the middle of the growing season, when the buddleia is “full of juice”, transplanting is not a good idea - the bush would take it very badly, partially dry out and, if you are unlucky, even die completely. During the summer months, the buddleia puts all its energy into the growth and development of shoots, leaves and flowers. However, if it is implemented, it must channel this power into its roots - with the result that the parts above ground are no longer supplied. For this reason, it is recommended to transplant buddleia and other trees in autumn or spring.
How to move an old buddleia – step by step
When transplanting the buddleia, it is best to proceed as follows:
- First cut the buddleia back by about a third.
- Tie the bush together with twine or something similar.
- Prick off the root ball all around with a spade.
- The ideal radius is about two thirds of the original height.
- Loose the root ball with a digging fork.
- Lift out the rhizome and the plant.
- Plant the buddleia in its new location.
- Mix the excavation there with horn shavings (€52.00 on Amazon) and compost.
In addition, the newly transplanted shrub should be watered vigorously, as this makes it easier to grow.
Tip
The pruning is necessary because a large part of the roots are cut off when digging. The remaining ones can no longer supply the above-ground plant parts alone.
