The Sprucery

Transplant Shock

What is transplant shock?

Newly transplanted trees undergo what is known as “transplant shock” when they are removed from the container their root ball is enclosed in and placed into new ground. Symptoms of transplant shock include droopy foliage, discoloration of leaves, defoliation, and premature fall color. This is not unusual or worrisome! Plants will often undergo some degree of transplant shock, especially during hotweather periods from late-June through mid-September.

How should I treat transplant shock?

1) It is crucial to make sure your new plant is receiving the correct volume of water. Too much water can be just as bad for a plant as too little. Ideally, your new plants should be watered two or three times per week. It is beneficial to research your specific plants to ensure that speciesand size-specific water needs are being met.

2) Amending your soil with something like Soil Pep and using products like Root Stimulator & Plant Starter Solution is extremely helpful—essential, even—in getting your plants’ roots established as quickly as possible. A strong root system will help stave off transplant shock and allow affected plants to recover from it more quickly.

3) The best cure for transplant shock is time. Transplant shock often lasts for several weeks, so it will take time for symptoms to subside.

What should I do if my plants show symptoms for more than two months?

We can help you identify the issue if you can provide us with relevant information and pictures of the plant(s) in question. The more information we have, the better!