How to Move Garden Plants During a Landscape Renovation

Understanding Which Plants Can Be Moved

Before you dig, know which plants to move.

• The perennial, herb, and various small to medium shrubs are good. Young plants are more difficult to transport because their roots are shorter and more loosely arranged.
• Older shrubs, plants whose taproot is deep, or those that do not like being moved, are known as hardier. They may survive the relocation but require additional attention and time.

Inspection of every plant is to prevent any unnecessary damage. In case of doubt, research the plant or consult a nursery.

Best Time and Conditions for Transplanting

Plants can be transported when they are not growing.

• Cool Seasons are Ideal: In late autumn, or in winter (in mild climates), or at the beginning of spring, many plants are out of action during such periods. They are not growing rapidly, so their roots experience less stress.
• Avoid Extreme Heat: Transfer of plants to very hot or very cold environments may shock them. Unless they have to move in summer, do it on a cloudy day, early morning, or late afternoon, not in the middle of the day.
• Check the soil: It must be wet and not muddy. The soil may become extremely dry, revealing the roots. Waterlogged soil is very heavy and difficult to work with.

Prepare Tools and New Planting Spots

Good preparation makes transplanting smoother and safer for the plants. Necessary tools may include:

• A sharp spade or shovel
• A garden fork (to loosen soil gently)
• Pruning shears
• Buckets or tubs for small plants
• Burlap, old towels, or sheets to wrap root balls
• Mulch or compost
• A watering can or hose

Before digging up a plant, the gardener should prepare its new home. The new planting hole should be a little wider than the plant’s root ball and about the same depth, following the same principles used when planting trees and shrubs properly for long-term growth.

Steps to Move Garden Plants

Here are the simple steps a gardener can follow to move plants safely during a landscape renovation.

1. Water Before Moving

The day before the move, it is recommended to water plants. Damp soil remains in the roots, shielding them. It also makes digging easier.

2. Tidy the Plant

Pruning shears can be used to trim any dead or damaged stems. In the case of shrubs that have long branches, tie them with a tender string to avoid breaking when transferred.

3. Dig Around the Plant

Make a circle around the plant, then start a little distance above the stems so you don't cut the roots too close.

• To make a small root ball, push a spade around the plant for small plants and perennials.
• In the case of shrubs or small trees, a trench may be well excavated around the plant, and the roots excavated underneath gradually.

4. Lift and Wrap the Root Ball

Once the circle is dug, the gardener should carefully slide the spade or fork under the plant and lift it. The root ball should stay together. If it breaks a bit, that is normal, but it should not fall apart completely, similar to the careful handling used when repotting a plant without damaging the roots.

Put the root ball on burlap, cloth, or an old sheet. Cover the roots with the fabric to keep them moist and protected from air and sunlight.

5. Move the Plant Quickly

Plants are not supposed to remain in the sun with naked or loosely covered roots. Take them into their new holes. In case renovation work requires that the plants not be replanted immediately, do either of the following:

• Place it in a shallow trench and cover it with soil.
• Place in large pots or boxes filled with compost or garden soil.
• Shake in a dark and covered area and keep damp.

Aftercare

When plants have moved, they may appear stressed, but with proper care, they will improve. In the first few weeks, maintain the soil at an even moisture level and surround the bottom with mulch to shield the roots from heat and cold. For more detailed watering, mulching, and stress-reduction tips, see this guide on how to care for newly planted trees and help them thrive.

If the plant appears wilted, provide temporary shade or water it. Growth may slow for a while. This is normal, and the majority of plants regain full strength after settling the roots in the new location.

DIY vs Hiring a Landscape Renovation Professional

Renovating a garden is an exciting activity; however, it can involve relocating plants to different locations. Homeowners do not want to replace their favorite shrubs, perennials, or small trees; they want to keep them. While you plan your new layout, you can also learn how to remodel your garden on a budget without compromising style.

DIY may be enough when:

• Only small or medium plants are being moved.
• The garden is not very large.
• The soil is not extremely hard or stony.
• The gardener has time to work slowly and carefully.

But DIY has limits. A landscape renovation specialist possesses knowledge, skills, and equipment that most homeowners do not have. They have been trained to relocate bulky plants, complete construction, and plan gardens in the long run.

When to Hire Landscape Renovation Services

Engaging landscape renovation services is an intelligent decision in a scenario like:

• Moving Large or Mature Plants: Mature shrubs or small trees may weigh hundreds of pounds and have deep roots. They can be moved safely by the professionals.
• Time-Sensitive Renovation Schedules: If construction is scheduled soon, professionals can remove and relocate plants quickly before heavy equipment arrives.
• Protecting Expensive or Sentimental Plants: There are special and costly plants. The professionals reduce the risk of their loss.
• Complex Garden Designs: When the project involves altering grading, irrigation, or large-scale design, professionals ensure that plants are placed in suitable, healthy locations.
• Preventing Mistakes That Lead to Plant Loss: A specialist knows how deep to dig, how to position roots, and how to keep plants alive in the long run.

When your renovation involves large plants, short deadlines, or major design changes, a landscape renovation professional is the best option. You can find garden remodeling pros to help relocate plants, secure the garden, and reconfigure the outdoor space with care and attention.

The Bottom Line

Transplanting during renovation is not difficult, provided that the appropriate equipment is used, the timing is appropriate, and the plants are properly maintained. With simple steps for transplanting and proper aftercare, they will ensure you settle into your new positions and continue growing healthily. A landscape renovation expert can help make a big or complex move faster, safer, and less stressful.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.