There are many reasons why transplanting the buddleia may be necessary. Be it because the plant doesn't feel comfortable in its current location or simply because it has grown too big. But maybe you just want to redesign the garden, which is why the summer lilac has to give way now. As a rule, the shrub is easy to move and grows back quickly with the right care.
In autumn, after flowering, is the best time to transplant the buddleia
Autumn is the best time
For a successful transplant, it is best to dig up the buddleia when it is dormant. During the vegetation phase, the plant could quickly take offense at such a measure, but in autumn - ideally in the months of October to November, when the soil is still warm - nothing should stand in the way of such a plan. If this is not possible, the shrub can also be transplanted in early spring, if possible before it buds in March or April. The prerequisite for this, however, is that the ground is already free of frost.
How to move a summer lilac - step by step
Before actually transplanting, cut back the buddleia by about a third. This measure is important so that the balance between the upper and lower, supplying parts of the plant is maintained. After all, a part of the roots is always lost when transplanting, whereby the remaining ones can no longer adequately supply the above-ground shoots. A cut prevents this. It continues as follows:
- Tie the shoots together loosely with string or something similar.
- Now cut off the root ball.
- Choose a radius that corresponds to about three quarters of the original growth height.
- Now lift the root ball out of the ground using a digging fork.
The clinging soil can remain on the plants, it makes it easier for the summer lilac to grow in its new location. There you mix a generous handful of horn shavings (32.93€) and compost under the excavation for an optimal start.
Careful care makes it easier to grow
In order for the summer lilac to grow properly, you should water it vigorously after planting and regularly supply it with plenty of water in the following days. However, be careful not to cause waterlogging. When transplanting in autumn, protect the transplanted buddleia from unfavorable weather conditions by mulching the root disc, to which it will react more sensitively than usual.
tips
You can use the cut wood and shoots to propagate the flowering bush.