Can I move mature hydrangeas?

[Anonymous]

I've got several mature hydrangeas - prob 4' and very full - that I'd like to move. A couple I only want to move ~3', others totally different location. Do hydrangeas hold up to transplanting? Is spring an ok time to try or should I wait til fall?

[Anonymous]

In my experience hydrangeas are pretty tough. We moved a 7 foot high oakleaf hydrangea and it is thriving in its new location. It's fine to do it in the spring, it just means you have be keep the plant watered over the summer.

[Anonymous]

Yes, you can. Spring is good, as the plants will get established before winter. Do it as soon as the soil warms up. Get as much of the root ball as you can, amend the new soil well and keep them watered and mulched. It may set back the flowering this year, but the plants will be fine.

[Anonymous]

Agree with PPs. We have three huge hydrangeas that were picked up for free from craigslist. They didn't bloom the first year. Been going great ever since.

[Anonymous]

Good question. I'm about to move four of them so I'll post back with an update. I spoke to a gardener recently who said it should be fine, and that you can transplant them pretty much any time, but spring is easiest. She also recommended some sort of transplant treatment for the soil but I haven't looked into it yet.

Good luck and wish me luck too!! I love my hydrangeas but they've gotten so big they block all the light from coming in our front windows. Hope they bloom as nicely in their new spot!