It's rather shocking!

Hello again!

I thought I would share a rather dramatic sounding condition that could afflict your tree or palm after transplanting! Now, once again, I am no academic and have only experienced this once on a series of palms. At least that’s what we thought it was! Obviously in harsh conditions like the middle east, not watering your tree or palm after planting will ensure its death, but in this situation, it was one dead palm in a series of 7. Six were thriving.

Official cause of death (more like an educated assumption) – Transplant shock.

So, what is it?

When a rootball is created for transplanting, its highly likely that you will lose a significant amount of its root hairs regardless of how careful you are. Root hairs are tiny little extensions from the outer surface of plants roots. They serve to increase the surface area of the roots and help the plant extract more water and nutrients from the soil.

These root hairs will start to regenerate upon planting, but adequate coverage can take weeks. As a result, the tree or palm could be temporarily deprived of water and or nutrients. Add in the following alternative potential stressors,

·???????? extensive transport,

·???????? delays in planting,

·???????? extreme shallow planting

·???????? excessive fluctuations in temperature

·???????? Poor watering schedule

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And your tree or palm could have transplant shock.

Here are some of the symptoms to help you diagnose it.

• Leaves and fronds may droop and appear wilted even when the soil is adequately moist.
• Leaves may turn yellow or brown, indicating stress and nutrient deficiencies.
• The plant may shed some of its leaves as a response to stress.
• New growth may slow down or stop altogether as the plant focuses on recovering.
• Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in stressed plants with compromised root systems.

Don’t panic! It’s easy to reduce the chances of transplant shock.

This is how!

·???????? ROOTBALL size! – making sure your rootball is a sufficient size helps to make all the difference! I think I have spoken more than enough on this topic! Make them bigger, it’s that simple.

·???????? Maintain watering but be careful not to overwater!

·???????? Ensure your planting is done promptly. Getting your tree or palm into the ground fast is the imperative. So, plan properly. Make sure your procurement understands the specification, that they have ordered all the items you need to get the tree or palm in the ground quickly.

·???????? Use rootball anchoring! This helps stabilise the tree or palm and aids in its acclimation to the new environment, enhancing its chances of successful establishment. It does this by providing stability and preventing the palm or tree from swaying or shifting which can damage the root system) and prevent establishment. Retaining firm contact with the surrounding soils helps with root hair growth. Whats more, by preventing soil displacement around the roots, anchoring helps prevent moisture and nutrient loss, thereby aiding in its recovery.

Its obviously imperative that you follow up your transplant with a solid maintenance plan. Including a watering schedule, pruning etc. If you have had a significant rain post planting, don’t forget to tension up your tree kit so that your rootball remains steady.

In conclusion, transplant shock is a common, but manageable, condition. All you need do is recognise the symptoms and treat the cause. Continue with a strong planting methodology and after-transplant care, and your tree or palm will thrive.