Transplanting plants at the correct time and in the right place is critical to their development and survival. Although it may appear to be an easy procedure, there is always the possibility that your plants will not thrive after repotting. There are numerous transplanting plants mistakes that you must be aware of its dangers. It’s also crucial to understand how to safeguard your plants and limit the negative consequences of transplanting.
Let’s learn about them!
Perhaps some floral buddies of new gardeners are in the wrong position and would look better and thrive elsewhere in the yard. Many beginners overlook transplanting since plants are made to stay put where they establish deep or extensive roots and stay put till they die. However, some of the plants may be on the verge of dying and need to be divided and relocated right away.
What are the top mistakes beginners should avoid when transplanting plants?
There are instances when both beginner and professional gardeners can go beyond in their eagerness to transplant, bringing much harm rather than good to their plants. Take a look at these common transplanting plants mistakes to avoid.
- Pot size is incorrect. Always choose a pot that is one size larger than the last one. This will allow the roots to grow freely, and the soil will not become saturated for several days after watering.
- Neglecting drainage’s importance. Gravels on the bottom should not be used because they raise the wetness in the soil and might cause root rot due to a lack of oxygen.
- Soil selection mistake. It is vital to use the appropriate soil type for the plant species.
- Transplanting in harsh and cold weather. If plants are uprooted and replanted in cold weather, they can experience “transplant shock” and even die.
- Transplanting a plant that has just begun to flower. When the conditions are just right, plants flower, and transferring them during that time will impede flowering.
- Completely disintegrating the root balls. Breaking down tightly entwined root balls is enticing, but it is detrimental. If the root ball has become a firm mass, simply immerse it in water overnight to soften it. Trimming roots that are tightly coiled can also be done with a shear.
- Inadequate water and light. Many people water their plants the same way they did before they were repotted, disregarding that they have been moved to larger containers with more soil that require more water. In addition, the plant should be kept out of direct sunlight.
How long does it take for plants to recover from transplanting?
Many smaller plants can entirely recover in a matter of weeks. For larger plants or trees, the effects of transplant shock may take months or years to recover. With proper care, a minor case of wilting after transplanting can be addressed, and the plant will eventually show no evidence of damage.
What are some common mistakes when planting?
While beginner gardeners can and should expect to reap the benefits of their initial works, there are some basic growing pains that everyone goes through when they first start out. Take a look at some of these mistakes!
- Building a volcano of mulch. The mulch traps moisture against the stems or trunk of the plant, encouraging deterioration. As a result, insects and disease are attracted to the area. Roots may also start to loop around in the mulch bed, similar to how they do in a plastic container.
- Failure to Locate the Sun. The majority of vegetables and flowers require full sun, which implies at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Many plants thrive in full-day sun, so check how much sun it gets over a day before deciding where to start your garden.
- Failure to prepare the soil. Soil that has not been treated with organic matter is less nutritious and dries out more quickly.
- Planting too close together. Plants that are overcrowded will fight for water and nutrients, resulting in a large number of weak plants instead of a few strong ones.
- Watering too much, then underwatering. Watering too much is not required for young seedlings or small plants. Plants that are fully grown, with many leaves and developing fruits, require more water.
- Pruning too harshly or too soon. You risk cutting off this year’s blossoms if you prune too soon.
How do you transplant plants without killing them?
It’s critical to ask yourself a few key questions about your plants before deciding to transplant them. Examine your plants closely and keep track of their progress.
Keep an eye out for key signals that indicate when it’s time to transplant your plants. When the plant’s roots have sprouted from the pot’s bottom and the water has reached the bottom of the pot rapidly, the plant is suitable to be transplanted.
Does transplanting hurt plants?
Plants can die as a result of the transfer, which is known as death from transplant shock. Plant transplant shock occurs when the plant roots are damaged during the transplant process. Some plants adapt well to their new surroundings and habitat, while others may die entirely.
Follow these vital steps carefully:
- Take the plant out of its pot.
- Examine the roots. If the roots have completely covered the soil, gently pry them apart. If they’re clinging to the bottom of the pot too tightly, loosen them up completely.
- Put the plant in a hole that has been prepared. If your soil is loose or sandy, the plant should be at or slightly above soil level.
- With your hands, compress the soil around the plant.
- Make sure to give the plants plenty of water. The plant’s roots will grow deeper into the earth if it is watered regularly. It also promotes the plant’s adjustment to its new home.
Should you water after transplanting?
Water your transplants heavily right after you place them in their final locations in your garden to ensure that their roots are making contact with the soil they were just transferred into and that both the roots and the soil are nice and wet to stimulate the roots to grow into the new soil.
