Plants in a garden grow over time.
When you first plant them, they are small and spaced far apart. The garden may look empty, so people often plant more to fill the space.
But as time passes, that empty space becomes crowded.
Plants begin to touch, mix, and compete with each other.
Some stronger plants push out weaker ones, while others grow together and lose their shape.
That is when thinning or transplanting becomes necessary.
Without it, plants can become messy, and the overall balance of the garden is lost.
Why Transplanting Requires Extra Care
After a few years, moving or removing plants becomes part of maintaining a healthy garden.
Some plants adapt well after transplanting, while others struggle or even die.
One thing is always important:
Watering after transplanting is critical.
Plants from nurseries already have well-developed roots inside their pots. That is why they usually establish quickly after planting.
But transplanted plants are different.
Their roots are cut during the process, and they are under stress. They need time to grow new fine roots before they can fully settle in.
The most important rule after transplanting is:
Water deeply, not frequently.
This does NOT mean watering every day.
It means giving enough water at one time so it reaches the deepest part of the roots.
Light watering that only wets the surface is not helpful.
The soil around the cut roots must stay moist for a while. Moisture is essential for new root growth.
How Often Should You Water?
There is no fixed schedule.
It depends on:
- plant type
- weather
- soil condition
- location
The best way is to check the soil.
Put your finger into the soil:
- If the surface is dry but deeper soil is still moist → OK
- If it feels dry deeper down → time to water
If you are unsure, it is usually safer to water.
Rain rarely harms plants, (but poor drainage can.)
Always Water Deeply
Whenever you water, make sure the water reaches the bottom of the root zone.
This is especially important for transplanted plants.
Long-Term Care After Transplanting
For larger trees (especially taller than a person), watering is important for at least one full year.
In areas like Vancouver, summers are dry, so watering during the first summer is essential.
After one year, roots begin to establish and adapt to the new soil.
However, transplanted trees are still sensitive for several years.
Like a person recovering from major surgery, they need extra care.
During dry seasons, regular deep watering is still important.
Written by Andy Lee
Owner of Andy’s Landscape Inc. – Landscape Contractor in Maple Ridge, BC