Apply a 3- to-4-inch layer of organic composted mulch (wood chips, leaves, or pine bark) extending from the base of the plant out past the drip line (end of the branches). Do not let the mulch rest against the trunk of the plant.
Using those results, fertilize using slow-release, non-burning organics, a high-nitrogen fertilizer containing slow release nitrogen (such as 10-6-4 50% organic), or water-soluble plant food to supply those nutrients. Apply just beyond the drip line of the tree following the label directions for rate.
A dilute, high-phosphorous fertilizer is preferable at transplant. We recommend Neptune's Harvest Fish Fertilizer (2-4-1), which is approved for certified-organic farms, or SeaCom PGR Seaweed Concentrate (0-4-4).
Some trees take a couple of years to get rid of most of their stress symptoms. Occasionally, it could even take up to five years for trees to fully recover.
Symptoms of Transplant Shock
The plant may appear limp and droopy. Leaf yellowing: The leaves may turn yellow or even brown, especially at the edges or tips. This can be a sign of nutrient deficiency or reduced water uptake. Leaf drop: The plant may shed leaves as a response to the stress.
Miracle-Gro® Quick Start® Planting & Transplant Starting Solution is ideal for all flowers, vegetables, trees, shrubs, transplants, and seedlings. To apply the solution, fill cap to the 1st line and mix with 1 gallon of water. Pour the diluted solution around the new plantings to settle soil and feed the roots.
This is known as transplant shock and happens because the plants' roots were likely damaged during the transportation process. Epsom salt can help plants overcome transplant shock.
You can fertilize once at transplanting, and then on a weekly basis until fruit set. Organic compliance for purchased materials can be verified if products contain an OMRI label — Organic Materials Review Institute.
Fertilization at the time of planting is generally not recommended. It is ineffective until the root system has a chance to reestablish. It is usually advisable to wait two or three years before applying fertilizer, and then it is recommended to get a soil test first.
We recommend soaking the root ball slowly with your garden hose, gradually moving the hose around the perimeter of the tree. In addition to soaking the root ball, water the area around the edge of the tree well to encourage outward root growth.
One of the main reasons trees struggle after being planted or transplanted is because they lose a massive amount of their root system during the process. Sometimes up to 95 percent! And to make it even tougher, the roots that are left are often incredibly dry, but you can help out with that.
As a rule of thumb, use as few as possible. For many smaller trees, one stake is sufficient to keep the tree vertical and stable. Place the stake upwind from the direction of prevailing spring or summer winds. If one stake is not sufficient, place two stakes that run parallel to the prevailing winds.
Liquid and gel forms of root stimulators tend to be the most effective, safest, and easiest to use. BAC's Root Stimulator is one of the best root stimulator for plants.
Trees provided with regular irrigation through the first growing season after transplanting require approximately 3 months (hardiness zones 9-11), 6 months (hardiness zones 7-8), or one year or more (hardiness zones 2-6) per inch of trunk diameter to fully establish roots in the landscape soil.
Can I Just Sprinkle Epsom Salt on Plants? Never apply Epsom salt straight from the package. Always dilute the granules in water first, and either drench your plants' roots or spray it on the foliage. Don't spray on hot or sunny days, however, to avoid scorching the foliage.
5-STEP GUIDE FOR TREATING TRANSPLANT SHOCK
Give the plant a thorough watering and keep the soil consistently moist after transplanting. Repotting your plant in good soil that has good aeration and drainage will help reduce the risk of root rot.
Providing magnesium for plants begins with annual applications of rich, organic compost. Compost conserves moisture and helps keep nutrients form leaching out during heavy rainfall. Organic compost is also rich in magnesium and will provide an abundant source for plants.
Newly planted trees or shrubs require more frequent watering than established trees and shrubs. They should be watered at planting time and at these intervals: 1-2 weeks after planting, water daily. 3-12 weeks after planting, water every 2 to 3 days.
Miracle-Gro has a negative impact on your garden soil. Miracle-Gro destroys beneficial soil life. Miracle-Gro is polluting our water systems. Miracle-Gro actually stresses your plants out and makes them more susceptible to pests and disease.
Bonide Garden Rich Root & Grow Root Stimulator & Plant Starter, 32 oz Concentrate 4-10-3 Fertilizer for Transplanting.
After about three years your trees will start to return to full growth and fill in normally as they fully recover from transplant shock.