Even though we meticulously plant our trees, they can still suffer from stress factors as they try to adapt to their new home. This condition is called tree transplant shock, which is basically the different strains that occur in recently transplanted trees.
The symptoms for transplant shock may vary from one tree to another. Oftentimes it can make the newly added tree look dying. go for Riverside tree care Some trees may look fine at first then show signs of stress later on.
There is hope for distressed trees, and they can be revived in most cases. But how can you be sure if the tree is under transplant shock or if another factor is causing its decline? Here’s how.
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Tree Transplant Shock Recovery
While transplant shock can be challenging for trees, it doesn’t mean they can’t recover from it. As long as you diagnose it early and offer them the right treatment, they can bounce back from the shock. It is crucial to know the signs, recovery approach, and time required to revive trees.
Dropping Leaves and Other Signs of Transplant Shock
One of the most obvious signs of shock among trees is dropping leaves. However, take note that transplant shock may look different for your tree.
Other indicators of transplant shock include:
- Brown leaf tips
- Leaf scorch
- Premature change of color
- Dwarfed twig or stunted flower growth
- Late spring budding
- Dieback
How Can I Tell If My Tree is Shocked or Dead?
It can be a challenge to tell at first because of the cunning similarity of the two conditions. But there is a way to spell the difference.
You can do the scratch test where you need to choose any random twig and scratch it with a knife or your finger. Do the same thing for other twigs on the tree, and if they show a bright green color underneath, your tree is not dead.
How To Revive a Dying Transplanted Tree
Many trees suffer from transplant shock because they lose a large amount of their root system in the preparation to relocate them to a new place. In some cases, a tree loses up to 95 percent of its roots, impacting its life after transplant. Also, the roots left can become excessively dry, which makes things even worse.
Here’s how you can help the tree:
- Water the roots generously at least one inch of water every week.
- Place at least two to four inches of mulch from the tree’s base to its farthest leaves. Avoid piling the mulch high against the tree’s trunk to avoid volcano mulching.
If none of the two techniques seemed to work, remember the time you first planted the tree. Did you dig the right hole size? It is crucial to make a hole three times the root’s size and deep enough to allow the roots to extend and sit still on the ground.
Replanting may look like a lot of work, but it is the best thing you can do for your tree if it was not placed in the right location the first time.
How Long Before A Tree Recovers from A Transplant Shock?
Perhaps the last ingredient in a successful transplanting journey is patience. The recovery time varies from one tree to another. Some may take two years, while others need more time to recuperate. Often, a tree requires a year to redeem itself from the transplant shock fully.
For more information about tree care, contact Augusta Tree & Stump Removal Services at (920) 280-7513.