Transplanting

Question

It is October 1st in New Hampshire. I need to transplant a mature rhododendron. What is the best way to do this?

Answer 1

If you have a non-native rhododendron, it has a shallow and wide-spreading root zone. The more of this you can dig up, the better. Have the new hole prepared before digging up the plant. Put the rhodie on a thick plastic sheet and drag it to the new location; this is easier on your back on leaves more soil attached to the roots. Make sure you plant it at the same depth or just a bit higher. Don't dig the hole deeper than necessary to prevent settling. Tamp the soil gently with your foot and water as you backfill dirt. Make sure to continue watering throughout the fall. More info here: https://www.rhododendron.org/transplant.htm