Moving an Established Bush Successfully:

If you’ve just moved into a new house or perhaps just want to change up your property’s landscape a bit due to new acquisitions, there may come a time when you would like to transplant established bushes and other foliage to other parts of your yard. Moving an established plant can be extremely tricky depending on the age of the plant, the extensiveness of its entrenchment, and the size of its root ball. Before even entertaining the idea of a move, it is essential to make sure the proposed new location will be as advantageous (or more advantageous) for the health and prosperous growth as the cozy spot it will be leaving. Make sure there is ample shade, ample sunlight, that adequate room exists for the plant as it grows, and that the new spot possesses the most hospitable soil to the particular plant’s liking. Once these issues have been resolved, it is time to get ready for the move itself.

The largest concern of moving an established planting is taking care not to damage too many of the feeder roots that do most of the nutrient, water, and oxygen absorption necessary for plant health. Depending on the size of the bush, plan on digging around the bottom quite a bit larger in order to help preserve the most of the feeder roots as possible, as this will help the bush adapt nicely and quickly to its new location. To be safe, it is best to dig around the circumference of the entire plant; depending on its size this could be three feet in diameter, so bring your muscles (or someone else’s) with you! With this increased hole size, you have a better chance of protecting the entire root ball, so carefully dig, observing the root ball as it is becomes visible. Once the entire root ball is exposed, water it thoroughly with water from your garden hose reel to help ensure it remains intact while you continue to dig around it. Once the root ball is completely uncovered, wrap it gingerly with burlap to ensure cohesion before trying to lift plant and ball to transport it to the new site. When lifting the entire plant into your awaiting wheelbarrow, it is essential to cradle the root ball carefully, ensuring it does not crack or break as this can surely mean death for your precious plant.

Making sure the new hole is the same size as the one your plant has just vacated, settle your plant within and replace the soil moved for its making. Water it thoroughly immediately and mulch the surrounding area. It is essential to be extremely diligent with weekly waterings throughout this crucial first year post-transplant. Check the soil often to make sure you are applying enough water to satisfy new growth. Your bush will soon take hold to its new environment, and adjust accordingly so you are able to enjoy it for many years to come.