How to Successfully Transplant a Forsythia Bush

Forsythias are beautiful spring-blooming shrubs that burst into sunny splashes of yellow when most other plants are still dormant. Their cheery blossoms are a welcome herald of warmer weather ahead

But sometimes these easy-care bushes can outgrow their space. Over time, they may become too large for their original planting spot. Or you may need to relocate an overgrown forsythia to a new area in your landscape.

Transplanting a forsythia bush is a project that requires some planning and care. But with the right techniques, even larger mature shrubs can be moved successfully.

Follow this step-by-step guide to properly transplant your overgrown forsythia. With attentive aftercare, your revitalized plant will soon thrive and flower abundantly in its new location for years to come.

When to Transplant Forsythia

Picking the right time to move a forsythia is key. This minimizes stress and encourages quick root regrowth after replanting.

The best times for transplanting are early spring and fall:

• Spring – After flowering ends, transplant while the shrub is actively growing. This gives damaged roots time to recover before summer heat arrives. Transplant in early spring for best results.

• Fall – Transplant in early autumn after leaves drop. This allows 4-6 weeks before a hard freeze for new roots to establish.

Avoid transplanting during the heat of summer or when the plant is dormant in winter. Cool, moist conditions are ideal for transplant recovery.

Preparing to Move Your Forsythia

Proper planning and preparation prevents problems down the road. Follow these tips before moving day:

• Select a sunny transplant spot with at least 5-6 feet of clearance to allow mature growth. Forsythias can reach 8-10 feet tall at maturity.

• Water the forsythia thoroughly the day before digging it up. Moist soil is easier to excavate and reduces transplant shock.

• Gather needed supplies ahead of time like tarps, rope, shovel, compost, etc. Having tools ready makes the process smooth.

• Dig the new planting hole first so it’s ready when you move the shrub. The hole should be the same depth but twice as wide as the root ball.

How to Dig Up a Forsythia Shrub

When ready to move your forsythia, follow these steps to carefully dig it up:

• Tie the flexible branches together with rope so they are out of your way during digging.

• Dig a trench around the shrub about 20 inches out from the trunk. This will sever a portion of the surface roots.

• Use wooden planks as levers beneath the root ball to gradually lift it up as you cut any remaining roots underneath.

• Move the freed shrub onto a tarp or sled positioned at the edge of the hole. Slowly drag it to the new transplant site.

• Try to retain as much of the intact root ball as possible when digging. Trim any damaged roots or split branches.

Transplanting Forsythia into the New Hole

Once positioned in the new hole, follow these tips to finish replanting your forsythia:

• Partially backfill the new hole with native soil. Water thoroughly before completing the backfill.

• Mix compost or peat moss into the remaining backfill soil to improve drainage.

• Ensure the transplanted shrub sits at the same depth as previously. Planting too deep inhibits growth.

• Use a shovel handle to gently tamp down soil and eliminate air pockets around the roots.

• Water deeply after transplanting. Continue daily deep watering for 2-3 weeks while it establishes.

• Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around the base to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

Caring for Newly Transplanted Forsythia

With attentive aftercare, your relocated forsythia will quickly bounce back:

• Water weekly the first year after transplanting, especially during dry or hot periods.

• Apply a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer in early spring to encourage vigorous regrowth.

• Prune any dead branches immediately after transplanting. Otherwise wait to prune until new growth resumes.

• Monitor for signs of shock like wilting or limited new shoots. Adjust care as needed.

• Be patient! It may take 1-2 years for a relocated forsythia to fully acclimate and bloom robustly again.

What to Expect After Transplanting Forsythia

When correctly transplanted and cared for, here is what you can expect:

• Initial minor wilting or leaf drop as the plant copes with root damage. This is normal.

• Reduced flowering the first spring after transplanting. Bloom improves over the next couple seasons.

• New shoots emerging from the base as the shrub adapts and sends out new roots.

• Bushier, more filled out growth over time as trimmed roots branch and regenerate.

• Eventual success and abundant flowers! It simply takes some time to adjust to its new spot.

Troubleshooting Transplanting Issues

Check for these common problems if your relocated forsythia struggles:

• Improper drainage – Amend dense soil with compost to improve drainage. Forsythias dislike wet feet.

• Under or overwatering – Monitor soil moisture and water thoroughly when dry 1-2 inches deep.

• Incorrect planting depth – Replant at the same level it originally grew at. Too deep inhibits growth.

• Insufficient root ball size – Try to retain as much of the intact roots as possible when digging up the shrub.

• Root or branch damage – Carefully handle the plant during transplanting to avoid harm. Trim any splits.

Transplant Forsythia with Care

With proper timing, gentle handling and attentive aftercare, even overgrown mature forsythia shrubs can be successfully transplanted. Follow these tips to give your plant a new lease on life in its relocated spot. Soon it will once again provide cheerful yellow spring blossoms year after year.