Transplanting How-To Guide

1/4

Root Ball

Cutting Roots

Perennial Pointers

Fall

Creating a “Root Ball” is one of the best ways to relocate and move a plant, tree or shrub. Or, if you’ve purchased a new woody plant for your garden or yard, creating a root ball will make planting a breeze.

Want to move a shrub from the front yard to the back yard? Then you should make a “Root Ball.”

The rule of thumb is to create a 12" root ball for every 1" of stem diameter. For example, if the diameter of the stem of a tree is 2", you should dig a root ball that is 24" in diameter.

Cutting a few roots (or “root pruning”) can really help your plant flourish. Not to mention, you will be able to share your plant with friends by giving them some roots, too.

It might seem counterproductive, but cutting roots will actually help reinvigorate the plant—a process known as root pruning.

When the roots are severed, the plant develops lateral roots to make up for what is lost. Lateral roots are more fibrous, and have a greater ability to absorb water and nutrients.

If a plant isn’t flourishing as well as it should, a little root pruning while the plant is dormant could bring it around.

If your plant or shrub has outgrown the space it’s in, you’re probably ready to divide it. Dividing is easy to do and will help your plant flourish.

Dividing a plant can also stimulate the root system and allow for healthy new growth. With perennials, it’s important to do this before they go dormant in the winter.

In the fall, you can dig up half the plant and move it to a new location—or even give it away to friends.

Fall is the perfect time of year to transplant trees, shrubs and perennials. The warm soil and cool air are ideal for root development.

Want to move a plant to a new location? Make sure there are no air pockets around the roots when you replant it. Water thoroughly.

In cooler months, plants still need water to establish a healthy root system. A thorough watering once a week will help plants adjust to new locations.

Did you buy trees or shrubs from a nursery? Before planting, check the roots for air pockets and keep the soil moist.

Explore Root Ball » Explore Cutting Roots » Explore Perennial Pointers » Explore Fall »