Transplanting Mature Spirea Bushes: Step-by-Step Guide

Moving 15-year-old spirea bushes is challenging but doable. Spireas are tough and hard to kill. Best time: fall, when soil is warm but plants are dormant.

Procedure:

1. Prepare new holes: at least 2 feet deep and wide, fork bottom, add all-purpose fertilizer.
2. Cut back top growth by 1/3 to 1/2 for easier handling.
3. Dig around each plant at least 18 inches from base, preserving as much root ball as possible. Sever remaining roots cleanly.
4. Use a tarp to drag/lift the plant to its new location (recruit strong helpers).
5. Set plant in hole, backfill with native soil, firming gently with heel.
6. Water thoroughly to settle soil and rehydrate roots. Water regularly if dry.

Success is confirmed when new shoots appear—could be weeks or next spring. Practice the tarp technique on a large potted plant first.