Transplanting certain plants causes stress to them, be it moving from one place to another within the garden or from potting on to the ground. This stress is called transplant shock. During this period, the growth of the plants may be stunted and cause wilting. Worst case, some may die. With the right confederacies of prevention measures and good practices, transplant shock can be reduced and plants can be made to become established with good health. Below are the important ways to minimize transplanting shock and hence facilitate the proper transition of your plants.
1. The Right Time for Transplantation
Choosing the right time can greatly decrease the stress placed on a plant through transplantation. Transplanting is best undertaken during the cooler temperatures of a spring or fall day, either early morning or late afternoon, when the sun shines weakly. Or in other words, the temperatures and moister levels are not too unbearable for successful rooting.
2. Getting the New Site Ready Beforehand
The site should be prepared beforehand for the transplanting of plants. The soil should be well-aerated, enriched with nutrients, and company-moist. The hole, depending on your nursery stock, should be wider than the ball of roots in order that the roots may find fitly onward without disturbances. If any potting Black Dyne-type is to be used in a nursery, it should ensure that the pot has sufficient drainage and is of medium size for root growth.
3. Watering Well Before and After Transplanting
Watering is another way to avert transplanting shocks. Water the plant deeply several hours before moving it. This allows the roots to retain moisture comfortably, reducing overall stress during the process. With regard to the arrangement of water after transplanting, it must essentially be deep to settle the soil and to eliminate pockets of air around the root.
4. Treating Roots Gently
Roots are so sensitive that rough handling sometimes damages them. When removing a plant from its previous location, always try to take out as much of the root ball as possible. If bound or tangled, untwine gently to direct their growth outward. Since excessive disturbance damages roots' capacity to water and nutrient absorption, be selective about what roots you work on.
5. Apply a Transplant Solution or Root Stimulator
Transplant solutions or root stimulators containing nutrients, such as phosphorus and mycorrhizal fungi, will increase root growth and reduce shock. These solutions favor root growth and, therefore, enhance the efficiency with which the plant can absorb water and nutrients in its new location.
6. Shelter and Protect
Newly transplanted plants are susceptible to strong winds and bright sun. If the transplant is located in full sunshine, erect a shade cloth or garden umbrella or position protective barricades for a few days. This helps to reduce stress and allows the plant to adjust gradually.