Assessing Survival of Transplanted Trees and Shrubs After One Year

Large transplanted trees/shrubs in Texas showing no green after one year—despite rain, sun, and root hormone—are almost certainly dead. Brittleness isn't the only death indicator; some species retain flexibility post-mortem.

Large plant transplant survival is 50/50 even with professional equipment. Critical factors: root ball integrity, immediate deep watering, and anti-transpirant application. Summer transplanting in Texas heat compounds stress.

Scratch bark: green cambium = alive; brown = dead. Check multiple branches. If dead, remove and replace with container-grown specimens (higher survival, faster establishment).

Future transplants: choose smaller plants (1-2 inch caliper), transplant in dormant season, use tree spade if possible, water religiously for two years.