Even healthy and correctly planted trees¹ must recover from the shock of transplanting before they can live long, healthy lives. When a tree is transplanted, many roots are lost. The tree has to regenerate its root system and may need to become acclimated to a new soil type. Although it may put out new leaves, it usually will not grow normally while in shock. Larger trees take longer to recover from transplant shock than smaller ones. As a rule of thumb, allow at least one year of recovery per inch of stem diameter.

Wilting is a common symptom of transplant shock.

To help trees overcome transplant shock and start on the road to long-term health:

• Purchase healthy, problem-free plants.
• Dig the planting hole the correct depth and as wide as possible.
• Remove twine, burlap, wire, and plastic where they could interfere with roots, stems, or branches.
• Water after planting, and regularly when the soil is dry.
• Mulch around the base of the tree.
• Maintain a stress-free environment.

¹References to trees in this publication are intended to include shrubs as well.