Transporting a rhododendron can be arduous if youre not fully prepared. In this guide, This Old Houses Roger Cook shows you how to move this shrub efficiently.
Transplanting a rhododendron can breathe new life into your landscape, giving this beautiful shrub a fresh start in a more suitable location. Whether you’re redesigning your garden or rescuing a struggling plant, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shows you the process of successfully relocating a large rhododendron to a new spot in the yard in the video above.
Rhododendrons are beloved for their vibrant blooms and attractive foliage. However, to thrive, they need a specific set of conditions.
Rhododendrons are prized for their spectacular blooms and attractive foliage. However over time they may outgrow their space or their needs may change. Replanting a rhododendron breathes new life into your landscape while allowing you to move it to a better spot. With proper timing, preparation, and care, you can replant a rhododendron and help it thrive.
When to Replant a Rhododendron
Timing is critical when replanting rhododendrons. The best times are early spring before new growth emerges or late fall/early winter after it has gone dormant Replanting during active growth periods causes too much stress.
Spring and fall provide ideal conditions – cool weather and adequate moisture. Avoid summer’s heat or winter’s freezing temperatures. Transplant when the plant is dormant to minimize disruption.
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the optimal new site is key for replanting success. Rhododendrons need:
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Soil pH of 4.5-6: Acidic soil is vital. Test soil pH and amend if needed.
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Rich, organic soil: Incorporate compost to improve nutrients and drainage.
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Partial shade: Dappled sunlight is ideal, avoiding harsh afternoon sun.
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Good drainage: Ensure water doesn’t pool. Add organic material or create a raised bed if needed.
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Wind protection: Shield from strong winds which damage leaves and branches.
Digging Up the Rhododendron
Carefully removing the rhododendron from its original spot prevents damage to the roots and branches:
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Water thoroughly 1-2 days before to keep roots moist.
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Mark a perimeter 5 feet out from base. Cut through roots along this line with a sharp spade.
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Dig down 6-10 inches outside the perimeter to undercut whole root mass.
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Tie up branches with soft rope so they don’t break during transport.
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Lift root ball carefully with a transplanting shovel once roots are cut. Support with hands underneath.
Transporting the Plant
Moving a large rhododendron requires planning and care to avoid harm. Options include:
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Excavator: Ideal for big shrubs. Use forks to securely cradle root ball during transport.
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Ropes: Tie branches securely to avoid shifting. Support heavy branches with hand.
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Tarp or cart: Slide tarp under root ball to drag/roll plant to new site.
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Vehicle: Ensure root ball is stable so it doesn’t shift during transport. Drive slowly.
Replanting the Rhododendron
Follow these steps when replanting the rhododendron:
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Prepare new hole beforehand: Dig hole 2x width/depth of root ball. Mix in compost.
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Place in hole: Ensure top of root ball is level with ground. Face best side forward.
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Backfill with soil: Mix in compost. Tamp gently to remove air pockets. Leave slight depression to hold water.
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Fertilize: Add starter fertilizer and superphosphate to encourage root growth.
Caring for Newly Replanted Rhododendrons
Proper aftercare ensures your replanted rhododendron reestablishes successfully:
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Water thoroughly after replanting and regularly the first year. Keep soil consistently moist.
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Mulch base with 2-3 inches of organic mulch like bark chips or pine needles to retain moisture.
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Monitor for signs of stress: Wilting, yellowing leaves may indicate issues. Prune dead branches immediately.
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Avoid fertilizing immediately: Wait until new growth emerges then use rhododendron fertilizer.
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Check for pests/diseases: Watch for aphids, spider mites, fungal issues. Treat promptly if found.
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**Provide extra care first seasons:**Shield from wind, extreme heat/cold, drought. Reduce watering once dormant.
With the right timing, technique, and aftercare, you can successfully replant a rhododendron. Pay close attention in the first year and you’ll be rewarded with a revitalized shrub that thrives in its new home.
Preparing the New Planting Hole
A properly prepared planting hole helps ensure the rhododendron’s success in its new location. Here’s how to prepare the new site, as demonstrated by Cook in the above video:
- Dig a hole about 12 inches deep and twice as wide as the root ball.
- Mix compost into the existing soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.
- Create a slight mound in the center of the hole to prevent the plant from settling too deep.
Selecting the New Location
Rhododendrons thrive in specific conditions. When choosing a new spot, consider:
- Partial Shade: Select an area that offers protection from harsh afternoon sun.
- Well-Draining Soil: The soil should be rich in organic matter and provide adequate drainage.
- Space: Ensure there is enough space for the plant to grow and spread.
- Wind Protection: Choose a location shielded from strong winds to prevent damage to the plant.
How to Transplant a Rhododendron | This Old House
FAQ
Can you dig up and replant a rhododendron?
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Best Time:Early spring or fall, when the plant is not in active growth and the soil is cooler.
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Preparation:
- Site Selection: Choose a new location with similar soil conditions (acidic and well-draining) and light conditions as the original location.
- Root Ball: Dig a large trench around the rhododendron, as wide as the plant’s canopy, and as deep as the root ball is expected to be.
- Root Pruning (Optional): For larger, established rhododendrons, you can encourage root growth by root pruning a few weeks before transplanting.
- Digging: Carefully dig around the plant, loosening the soil and gently lifting the root ball.
- Protect the Roots: Wrap the root ball in burlap or plastic to prevent it from drying out.
- Site Selection: Choose a new location with similar soil conditions (acidic and well-draining) and light conditions as the original location.
Can you grow a rhododendron from a cutting?
Yes, it’s possible to propagate rhododendron through cuttings, although layering is easier imo.
How deep are rhododendron roots?
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Shallow Root System:Unlike deep-rooting trees, rhododendrons have a relatively shallow root system, with most roots concentrated near the surface.
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Root Depth:The roots usually extend to a depth of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm), but in ideal conditions, they can reach up to 1 meter (3.3 feet).
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Importance of Surface Watering:Due to their shallow roots, rhododendrons need consistent moisture in the topsoil, especially during hot and dry periods.
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Planting Depth:When planting rhododendrons, ensure the top of the root ball is at ground level or slightly above, and dig a hole that is at least as wide as the root ball, if not wider.
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Mulching:Mulching around rhododendrons helps retain moisture and prevent weeds, which can compete with the shallow roots for water and nutrients.
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Transplanting:Because of their shallow roots, rhododendrons can be moved relatively easily, requiring less digging than with deep-rooted plants.
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Root Rot:Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, a common problem for rhododendrons, so proper drainage is crucial.
Do rhododendrons like sun or shade?
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Ideal Conditions:Rhododendrons prefer a location with filtered sunlight or partial shade, where they receive some morning sun but are shielded from the intense afternoon heat.
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Sunlight Tolerance:While some rhododendron varieties can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates, most benefit from some shade, particularly during the hottest part of the day.
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Shade Benefits:Shade helps prevent leaf scorch and protects the delicate leaves and flowers from overheating.
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Variety Considerations:Different rhododendron species and cultivars have varying sunlight needs, so it’s important to research the specific requirements of the variety you plan to plant.
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Soil:Rhododendrons thrive in acidic, well-drained soil.
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Location:Plant rhododendrons in a location that provides protection from strong winds, as they can be susceptible to wind damage, especially when young.