Can Trees Recover From Transplant Shock?
When planting a new specimen in your lawn, there are a number of factors that can reduce the stress put on your trees. However, sometimes no matter how many precautions and extra steps we take, our trees still suffer from transplant shock.
What are the signs of tree transplant shock?
Yellowing of the leaves
Browning of the leaves
Wilting
Leaf rolling
Leaf curling
Loss of coloration on evergreens
Limb dieback
Can my newly planted trees recover from transplant shock?
The main factor in terms of recovery is addressing the problem early on. The earlier that transplant shock is identified and helped, the better the results will be. Most of the problem that occurs when transplanting a tree is root loss. Sometimes trees will lose up to 95 percent of their root system in the transplant process which can severely dry the tree out.
A few things you can do to help after transplant are:
*Ensuring your tree is on a rigorous watering schedule, especially for the first few weeks after being planted to replace the water that was lost in the roots. Afterwards, one inch of water per week will suffice depending on what region you live in.
*Mulching around the base of your trees with organic mulching material will help reduce the weeds(competition), as well as ensure optimal moisture retention after watering. Make sure when mulching you keep it away from the base of the tree and about 3 inches thick.
*Ensuring the tree was planted properly in line with the soil, and the hole was the right size before planting.
If you try these steps and your newly planted trees seem to still be struggling, give us a call for an ISA Certified Arborist consultation.
