There are enough reasons to transplant a shrub. Be it that the bush has become too big for the old location or that you now want to use the space differently. Most shrubs will survive careful relocation.
When and how should you transplant shrubs?
Transplanting shrubs is best done when they are dormant during frost-free days, preferably in late winter or spring. You should only transplant young bushes and dig up the root ball generously without letting it dry out. Please water thoroughly after transplanting.
Can all shrubs tolerate transplanting?
Some shrubs don't like being transplanted at all, for example the common broom (bot. Genista). Other shrubs are less sensitive. In general, however, young bushes tolerate moving better than old ones. Fully grown bushes that are several years old should no longer be transplanted.
When is the best time to transplant shrubs?
It's best to replant your shrubs in late winter or early spring before they start producing new growth, ideally before April. Choose a frost-free day for this work. Night frosts do not harm the newly transplanted bush, but if the ground is frozen, you can hardly dig up a bush.
The months of August and September are also considered a good time for transplanting shrubs. But it shouldn't be too warm anymore and the flowering period must be over. With evergreen shrubs, it should be noted that they can still take root well until winter. For everyone, transferring works best during the rest phase on an overcast day.
What do I have to consider when transplanting?
The root ball of a shrub is usually about the same size as the above-ground parts of the plant, the “crown”. You should definitely keep this in mind when digging. Dig out the ball carefully, if possible without damaging the roots.
So that the ball doesn't dry out, you should work quickly and replant the bush soon. Water the newly planted shrub thoroughly, including in the next few months.
The most important things in brief:
- ideal time: frost-free, overcast day during the rest phase
- only transplant young bushes
- Dig up the root ball generously
- work as quickly as possible
- Don’t let the root ball dry out
- Cut back the bush before moving it
Tip
If possible, only replant young, not fully grown bushes; old, fully grown specimens have difficulty recovering from a move.
