Hydrangea is a plant that is loved by homeowners for its beautiful presence. However, hydrangeas are quite delicate, especially when it comes to moving them. It is important to take extra care and precautions while shifting them from one place to another or transplanting them from one container to another.
If not moved with care, it is very common for hydrangea plants to die due to sudden shock. The shock is a side effect of transplanting them due to their weak root system. Therefore, it is important to be extra careful while moving them. In this article, we will understand how to transplant hydrangea to avoid transplant shock and how to care for the plant after transplanting it.
How to Avoid Hydrangea Transplant Shock?
Hydrangea transplant shock is a common problem when moving hydrangea, and the common signs include wilting, falling leaves, and a lack of blooms in the hydrangea. In some cases, the plant may not survive. To reduce the risk of hydrangea transplant shock, follow these points while moving the plant:
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Dig up as much of the root ball and soil around it as possible.
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Remember not to damage the roots much, as it can even kill the plant.
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Avoid pruning at the transplanting stage as it can cause too much stress on the plant.
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After moving the hydrangea plant, keep it well watered until it settles in the new area.
The flowers in hydrangea plants are an indication that it has been transplanted well.
When to Transplant Hydrangea to Avoid Shock?
The best time to transplant hydrangeas is during the dormant season when they are not growing. This happens typically during the fall when the plant starts to die back or in the early spring before it starts growing again.
The best time to transplant can vary, but it is a general rule to transplant it at a time when it gets at least six weeks of mild, cool temperatures. This gives the hydrangea enough time to grow its roots before it is too hot or too cold.
Fall Transplanting
Fall is the best season to transplant hydrangeas, as they can easily grow new roots and won’t have to bear the summer heat. To know the right time, wait until the blooms have died and leaves have begun to fall after turning brown. Make sure to transplant them six to eight weeks before the first frost.
Spring Transplanting
You can also transplant during the spring in case of late garden planning. Just plant after the last threat of frost is over, but don’t wait so long that the plant has already started its growth for summer.
Where to Transplant Hydrangea?
While transplanting hydrangea, make sure that the new location is as comfortable as the previous one. Hydrangeas need a lot of sunlight, but they can grow under afternoon shade in southern climates. They also get sunburned easily; therefore, it is important that the plant is moved to an area that remains in shade during the hottest time of the day.
Also, ensure that the plant is transplanted to a place with enough moisture. Choose a spot with well-drained soil as hydrangea need water but not waterlogged and soggy soil.
How to Prepare the Spot Before Transplanting?
After choosing the right spot for transplanting hydrangea, the next step is to prepare the ground. Mix some organic matter in light soil to help with moisture. Then, clear the soil by removing large stones and sprinkle some mycorrhizal fungi to help establish the root.
What to Do After Transplanting Hydrangeas?
After transplanting the hydrangea, make sure it gets enough water, especially towards the end of the season as it enters dormancy. Keep track of the weather, perform knuckle tests, use a rain gauge, and give extra water if there is less rain.
During the summer, the plant may still need extra care because its delicate roots are growing. If the plant looks wilted, spray water on it even if the soil at its base feels moist.
If the hydrangea transplant does not bloom in the next flowering season, focus on growing roots at that time. It might take a full season for the hydrangea plant to establish completely.
How to Fix Hydrangea Transplant Shock?
Reviving the hydrangea plant after transplant shock is quite easy. Keep the soil moist but avoid sogginess, and move the plant to a spot where it gets some afternoon shade. Do not fertilize the plant until it has settled. By doing these simple steps, the plant will bounce back and thrive again.
