Moving a large box ball
Carolekins
Posts: 4
Hi. This is my first time of posting. I have a large container W18" D 18" H 36" with a large box ball that is getting too large for the container. Can I move it into a flower bed without causing damage to it, if so what time of year is best to do this? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks Carole
0
Posts
Early spring or autumn is the best time of year to move perennials. It should rain a lot, as the plant will need water to settle in.
If the plant is pot bound, tease out the roots a bit before you plant. And keep an eye on the watering for the first year after it is in the ground.
Thank you for all your replies. Everyone has been very helpful.
I agree with Freddie's Dad but would just add that a handful of bone meal forked into the bottom of the hole will help to get the roots off to a good start, but that applies to the planting of most things.
Good advice above about root teasing and bonemeal. I would add that the plant should be thoroughly soaked before you remove it from its container and then re-planted at the same level as before and watered again and then regularly watered till it shows it has settled in. That may be all summer.
I would also give it a foliar feed of liquid seaweed fertiliser a couple of times in May and June to help it grow strongly.
"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw
I recall Monty Don saying that they respond well to the bottom of the root ball being completely sliced off with a spade, to promote new root growth.
I did this when repotting two large box balls and they are growing well.
Thank you all who responded to my box ball query. Excellent tips and advice. I shall move the box ball at the weekend, so I have plenty of time to do it 'properly!