Marianne's Response

woltzen’s Question

Hi, I want to move some plants around. I live on the south hill of Puyallup, Wa. When can I transplant my Viburnum (David’s ), Red twig Dogwood(Cornus stolonifera), butterfly bush, and Lavatera (red rum). I made some errors in plant placement, some plants are not seen due to others being taller and in front of them. Thanks

Posted by woltzen on November 3, 2013

Marianne's Response

In your area you can transplant shrubs anytime the ground is not frozen. The only plant you mentioned that should wait until spring is the Lavatera. Wait until you see new growth in the spring - perhaps late April to move this perennial. If you make sure the soil is moist before you dig in and replant immediately with lots of moist soil around the roots, replant at the same level and then water and mulch around the roots, well then you can consider all your plants as having wheels and just move then around until you get the placement just right. Fall and spring are the easiest time of year as you won't have to worry as much about keeping the soil moist. Keep growing - and moving those plants. Marianne Binetti