Transplanting 6-Foot Camellia in Sacramento

Transplanting a 6-foot camellia requires substantial root ball, careful timing, and diligent aftercare for survival.

Transplant Procedure

1. Timing: When soil is workable (late winter/early spring) OR after flowering.
2. Root ball: Dig at drip line — 24-30 inch diameter for 6-foot plant.
3. New hole: Twice root ball width, same depth.
4. Backfill: Amended native soil (compost + native).
5. Water: Thoroughly to eliminate air pockets.
6. Monitor: Watch for shock (wilting, leaf drop) — water consistently.

Critical Success Factors

• Root ball integrity: Keep intact — wrap in burlap if moving distance.
• Depth: Plant at identical depth — camellias die if planted too deep.
• Acid soil: Camellias require pH 5.0-6.0 — test and amend.
• Shade: Protect from afternoon sun in Sacramento summers.

Sacramento Timing

Best: January-February (dormant) or immediately after spring bloom. Avoid summer heat and winter freeze periods.

With careful execution, a 6-foot camellia transplant has good survival odds — they're tougher than their delicate flowers suggest.