Trumpet vine, also known as trumpet creeper, produces clusters of trumped-shaped, orange flowers that are beloved by pollinators. These vines prefer mild climates, grow in most soil types, and thrive in full sunlight. In fact, trumpet vine is an aggressive spreader that should be grown with caution.
Trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) is a gorgeous flowering vine that livens up gardens with its vibrant orange blooms. However, this aggressive plant can quickly take over an area. That’s why learning how to properly transplant trumpet vine is an important skill for any gardener growing this plant.
Transplanting trumpet vine may seem daunting, but following some key steps will ensure success moving it to a new location. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the entire trumpet vine transplanting process.
When is the Best Time to Transplant Trumpet Vine?
Picking the right transplant timing is critical for trumpet vines. These plants do best when moved while dormant during late winter or early spring. This gives the roots time to establish before active growth starts with warmer weather.
Here are signs your trumpet vine is ready to be transplanted
- The plant has dropped its leaves and entered dormancy
- Minimal new growth is occurring
- The ground is moist but not frozen
Avoid transplanting during summer or fall when the vine is actively growing. The shock will significantly set back trumpet vines moved at this time
How to Prepare for Transplanting Trumpet Vine
Proper planning and preparation sets up your trumpet vine for the smoothest possible transition to its new home Follow these tips
- Select a new sunny planting site with well-draining soil. Amend it with compost or manure 2-3 weeks before transplanting.
- Prune back the vine, removing all stems except 2-3 healthy ones. Cut these back by one-third to reduce transplant shock.
- Water the plant deeply 1-2 days before digging it up. This keeps the root ball together better.
- Pick a cool day without extreme cold, heat, or wind to reduce transplant stress.
Step-By-Step Guide to Transplanting Trumpet Vine
Once prepped, it’s go time! Here is a step-by-step process for successfully transplanting trumpet vines:
- Dig around the trumpet vine’s root zone and lift out a large root ball, approximately 18-24 inches wide and deep.
- Keep as much soil attached to the roots as possible to retain moisture and prevent excessive shock.
- Cover exposed roots with a tarp or wet burlap when moving to protect them.
- Dig a new planting hole slightly wider than the root ball in the prepared transplant site.
- Carefully place the vine in the hole, keeping it at the same ground level as before.
- Backfill the hole with native soil, pressing firmly to remove air pockets.
- Build a water basin around the vine to direct irrigation water to the roots.
- Water thoroughly until moist soil reaches the entire root zone.
- Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch around the plant to conserve moisture. Avoid mulching directly against the stem.
Trumpet Vine Transplant Aftercare
Caring properly for trumpet vine after transplanting is just as important as the move itself. Here are some aftercare tips:
- Water deeply 2-3 times per week during the first month, then taper off as the plant establishes.
- Stake larger vines for added support while new roots develop.
- Watch for transplant shock symptoms like wilting, yellow leaves, and stunted growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced 10-10-10 formula to encourage rooting and growth.
- Prune back any dead stems and shape the vine as needed in late spring after transplanting.
- Monitor for pests like aphids that attack stressed plants and treat as needed.
Troubleshooting Transplant Issues
Even with the best care, some problems can come up when transplanting trumpet vines:
- Drooping leaves often indicate dehydration. Ramp up watering frequency.
- Yellowed foliage may signal overwatering. Allow the soil to partially dry before watering again.
- Minimal new growth means the root system is underdeveloped. Fertilize to stimulate growth.
- If the vine fails to thrive despite your efforts, consider replacing it with a healthier plant.
With attentive aftercare, trumpet vine should rebound well in its new spot. Stay diligent with care during the first year as the plant establishes. Once settled in, this vigorous grower will take off!
How to Propagate Trumpet Vine from Cuttings
You can also propagate trumpet vine from cuttings to create new plants:
- Take 6-8 inch cuttings from healthy vines in summer. Remove the bottom leaves.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) then plant in pots with well-draining soil.
- Water thoroughly and place the pots in a shady spot. Rooting takes 4-6 weeks.
- Once rooted, plant the new vines in their permanent location in spring.
When is the Best Time to Transplant Rooted Cuttings?
For trumpet vine cuttings that have successfully rooted, follow the same guidelines as mature plants – transplant them in early spring just as growth resumes.
Key Takeaways
Transplanting trumpet vines takes planning and care for the best results:
- Time it right in early spring when dormant.
- Prune back and water well before digging up the plant.
- Extract a wide, deep root ball and replant quickly.
- Water thoroughly after transplanting and mulch well.
- Fertilize and prune carefully during aftercare.
- Propagate more vines from summer stem cuttings.
Following this comprehensive transplant process will ensure your trumpet vines transition smoothly to their new location. The brilliant flowers and rapid growth will make the effort well worth it for any gardener.
Potting and Repotting Trumpet Vine
Trumpet vine makes a surprisingly good container plant, as this method of growing makes it much easier to control its rampant spread. But it will take a very large, heavy container, such as a half-barrel or 20-plus gallon concrete or ceramic planter. Fill the container with general-purpose potting mix, and equip it with a sturdy climbing trellis at the same time you plant the vine.
As with in-ground plants, be sure to dig a hole thats big enough to fit a bottomless bucket container, so it prevents the trumpet vine from spreading its roots and possibly damaging other plants. Gently loosen the roots of plants and place it into the soil, preferably with something that will give it support like a trellis. Be prepared to prune back the vine to just above soil level on a yearly basis in the late fall or early spring. Apricot and Indian Summer are good cultivars for containers, as they are somewhat smaller than other varieties.
Trumpet Vine Care
Trumpet vines require little care in order to thrive. Here are the main care requirements for trumpet vine:
- Choose a location with partial or full sunlight.
- Dont put too much thought into the soil, as trumpet vine isnt picky with soil type.
- Water occasionally or during periods of drought.
- No supplemental fertilizing needed.
Trumpet vine is listed as invasive in some areas of the United States, because when it escapes from cultivation, it can choke out other species. The USDA lists trumpet vine (trumpet creeper) as a noxious weed. When used in a landscape, trumpet vine is best planted within boundaries that can be easily enforced.
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Transplanting a Trumpet Vine- DIY
FAQ
Are trumpet vines easy to transplant?
The plants are very resilient, so resilient, in fact, that more people are concerned about their aggressive growth pattern than about them not doing well. It is important to know when to transplant trumpet vines. Your best time for trumpet vine transplanting is in early spring before significant growth happens.
Can you grow a trumpet vine from a cutting?
Yes, trumpet vines (Campsis radicans) can be successfully propagated from cuttings.
Do trumpet vines like full sun or shade?
Trumpet vine is easily grown and thrives in both full sun and partial shade. While it prefers a nice well-draining soil, trumpet vine flower is resilient enough to adapt to nearly any soil and will grow readily. Choose a suitable location prior to planting and a sturdy support structure.