Transplanting Established Viburnum and Hydrangea: Timing and Technique

Allison needs to move a leatherleaf viburnum and a hydrangea due to deck construction. Both are well-established. Key considerations: timing, root ball size, and light requirements.

Best Transplant Times

• Viburnum: Early spring (before bud break) or fall (after leaf drop).
• Hydrangea: Early spring or fall. Avoid summer heat.

Transplanting Steps

1. Prepare the new hole first: Twice as wide as the expected root ball, same depth.
2. Water deeply 1–2 days before digging.
3. Dig the root ball: For shrubs this size, aim for a ball diameter of at least 18–24 inches. Cut a circle at the dripline, then undercut.
4. Move on a tarp or burlap to keep the root ball intact.
5. Plant at the same depth as before. Backfill with native soil amended with compost (1:3).
6. Water thoroughly to settle soil. Mulch 2–3 inches, keeping it off stems.
7. Water regularly for the first full growing season.

Light Requirements

• Leatherleaf viburnum: Tolerates morning sun/afternoon shade well.
• Hydrangea (macrophylla): Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade; too much shade reduces flowering.

Transplant in early spring for best recovery. Both should re-establish successfully with careful handling.