GARDENER'S READING ROOM
Trees & Shrubs

How to Move Established Shrubs

Moving established shrubs is usually accomplished fairly easily in the cool weather of fall. If you are unsure about whether a particular plant will be easy to move or have questions about the process consult one of Sky Nursery's professional staff.

Step #1
Water the plant thoroughly 1 to 2 days prior to moving it.

Step #2
Dig a trench around the plant just outside the drip line (where the edge of the foliage is) of the plant. Use pruners, loppers, or a saw to cleanly cut any roots you find.

Step #3
Dig out the rest of the root ball.

Step #4
Wrap the root ball in burlap (common box nails work well to hold the burlap in place) if you are going to hold it for a period of time or are giving it away. If you are relocating it in your own space, simply roll the plant onto a tarp or wheelbarrow and take it to its new home.

Step #5
Inspect the roots and prune out any broken or circling roots. Replant in its new location. Use a good transplant fertilizer like Dr Earth Starter and/or Lilly Miller Vita Start. Water the plant in thoroughly. Continue to monitor the plant the first season as you would any new plant.

Skylights Autumn 2007, Vol 22, No. 3

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