Transplant shock is a common problem for trees, and it can take up to five years for them to fully recover. However, in most cases, it takes about one year for a tree to shake off the effects of transplant shock. Experts agree that a newly planted tree needs one year for every inch of trunk diameter to recover its normal root system. For instance, a three-inch-diameter tree will need at least three years in the ground to establish itself. Vegetables, on the other hand, can usually recover from shock after two to four weeks of transplantation.
But plants like trees may take up to two years or more before they can bounce back from the shock stress of transplantation. There is a general rule that states that for every centimeter of caliber, it takes 1 to 1.5 years for the tree to recover from the shock. For example, a tree with a two-inch gauge will take two to three years to recover from the impact. Transplantation is one of the most challenging moments that can sometimes lead to death, especially if it is not handled correctly. During this time, root damage and changing environmental conditions are the two main sources of stress (or shock) for a tree.
But what if you, as the owner, want to move houses and want to bring your favorite plants with you? Or maybe you've started growing some seeds indoors during the hot summer and want to transplant them into the garden during the cold season. Replanting the tree again is like restarting the stressful procedure and can cause more damage to the tree. A certified arborist can help diagnose problems and recommend cultural care options or treatments that can help the tree overcome a stressful time. This is because fertilizers can increase the growth of plant leaves and this also increases the load or pressure on the roots of plants, which in turn leads to shock in the transplant. Remember, when transplanted to a new location, the plant has the same number of leaves to hold, but it will have a smaller root system to supply water and nutrients.
However, you can take steps before and after planting to minimize its impact and help your tree recover and establish faster. This simply means shoveling the roots around the tree at a comfortable distance from the trunk. A smaller plant or tree can go into a different pot and a larger plant or tree can be transferred into the ground. The transplant shock can last from two weeks up to five years, depending on what kind of plant or tree you are growing. I will give you tips for recognizing transplant shock and how you can help a plant recover from this problem. In conclusion, some trees may take up to five years before they can fully recover from transplant shock.
