Spring is the perfect time to move your perennials – and while it might feel a little daunting, it’s actually really easy! Debi Holland shares her simple step by step guide that shows you how to prep the area, lift the plant and replant.
How to move perennials in spring
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Spring is a good time to move many established perennials. Water the soil the day before, so the plant is hydrated and the soil is easier to work with.
Prepare the new spot. Clear weeds, dig a planting hole and give it a good soak before you lift the plant.
Lift the whole root ball. Work a garden fork under the plant, leaving a wide margin around it so as many roots as possible stay intact. Lever it out and hold it by the base. Pulling on the stems can snap them.
Replant at the right depth. Adjust the hole so the plant sits at about the same level as before. I sprinkle a little Richard Jackson’s Root Booster around the roots. Backfill with soil, firm it around the edges to close air pockets and water thoroughly.
Finish with a mulch of garden compost, mineralised straw or wood chippings to hold in moisture. Keep the perennial watered as it settles in and feed as appropriate.
