Common Cultural: Transplant shock

Biology

Inadequate root systems, improper planting, overwatering, underwatering, transplanting during the wrong time of year, allowing roots to dry or freeze, and severe root pruning are common reasons for transplant failures. Symptoms usually show up the first growing season following transplantation.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• For container-grown plants, drive a spade vertically straight through the bottom half of the root system at planting time. Horizontally spread the top half of the surface roots by making six to eight vertical cuts around the perimeter of the root ball.
• Remove circling or girdling roots by making six to eight vertical cuts through surface roots and spread cut root ends at planting time.
• Only buy balled and burlapped plants that have an adequate size rootball and have been properly root pruned several months to a year or more before being dug from the ground.
• Remove all twine and burlap after plant is put into its hole at planting time.
• Irrigate properly during plant establishment.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

None recommended.

Additional Image