If you find that the location for your bluebell tree is no longer ideal, you may want to consider replanting it. Below you will find out up to what age of the tree you can do this relatively easily and how best to proceed.
Can you transplant a bluebell tree?
You may transplant your bluebell tree if you feel it is necessary, for example because of a less than ideal location. However, it is recommended to moveonly young paulownias up to the age of five to keep the risk low.
When is the best time to move the bluebell tree?
It is best to replant your young bluebell tree in spring. The ideal time is fromend of March to mid-April, i.e. before budding, which typically occurs relatively late for Paulownia tomentosa.
How do I transplant the bluebell tree correctly?
When transplanting your bluebell tree, follow these steps:
- Prepare the planting hole carefully at the new location.
- Dig up the root balls thoroughly.
- Remove the bluebell tree.
- Soak well.
Should I trim the bluebell tree after transplanting?
It makes sense to prune the bluebell tree after transplanting. This measurepromotes strong new growth already in the first year.
If you leave the imperial paulownia uncut, the shoots in the planting year are usually rather weak.
Note: In the nursery, radical pruning of bluebell trees up to 20 cm above the ground is anything but unusual. This results in beautiful, straight trunks developing when new growth occurs.
Can I also transplant the bluebell tree bare root?
A young, two to three year old bluebell tree can also be transplanted bare root. At this age the tree usually only has a few thick roots. You can pierce these with a spade or break through them with an axe. After being moved, the bare-root emperor tree generally sprouts new roots from the root interface within about three weeks and grows reliably.
Note: Young plants can sprout from the root remains in the cleared area over the course of the year. Maybe a neighbor is interested?
Tip
It is better not to transplant older bluebell trees anymore
We advise against relocating older bluebell trees. As soon as they are sexually mature, i.e. between the ages of six and ten, the trees often tolerate a change of location very poorly. Aside from that, the strong roots make the act of transplanting a huge challenge. If possible, give your emperor tree a suitable location right from the start.
