Knowledgebase

Transplanting a hardy hibiscus #603843

Asked October 23, 2019, 12:20 PM EDT

I have a white hardy hibiscus that I have owned for about 10 years. It has survived a move and house build as well as the MN winters, and now in its latest location the trees have grown to the point where it's a "shadow" (sorry) of it's former self. I want to move it to a sunnier location and wondered if it is too late in the season to do that. When is it ok to transplant this nice hibiscus? Thank you. Phil

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Transplanting hardy hibiscus is best accomplished in the spring.  Cut back the dead growth from this season and carefully dig up the roots. Your 10 year old shrub will  have big roots so be prepared for some hard work. It is best to move it next spring. Dig it up, move it to the new location, and plant it right away. Select a location with full sun and well draining soil. Water it well the first year until it is established. Typically, hardy hibiscus don't require much intervention after the first year. It is too late to transplant it this fall.
Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied October 23, 2019, 12:54 PM EDT
Pat,

Thank you for your quick response.  One less thing to do this fall.  How early in the Spring would you recommend digging it up?

Thanks.

Phil
The Question Asker Replied October 23, 2019, 1:30 PM EDT
Hardy hibiscus may be transplanted anytime in spring. Plants that bloom in spring are transplanted in fall.  Plants the bloom in summer or fall are transplanted in spring.  
Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied October 23, 2019, 2:20 PM EDT

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