The Heirloom Project: Transplanting Family Plants

One family tradition that holds a special place in my heart is the story of my Grandma Adelaide. Her wild flower gardens were full of Kentucky violets and the scent of lilacs filled her home in the summer from the large lilac trees that grew outside her kitchen window. We would pick these beautiful flowers from Grandma Adelaide's garden and create flower arrangements.

Then there was Grandma Mary's garden filled with snapdragons, lilies, and irises. Whenever we moved, my mom would transplant these flowers into our own garden, ensuring that the legacy continues to bloom wherever we go and now they are in my sisters' and my gardens too.

There were plants that we didn't transfer, like the hollyhocks that my Grandma Mary said would bring luck to a new home. We give each other those seeds as house warming gifts and our gardens immediately give us a sense of "home."

My mom and sister have spent the weekends this part month dividing and transplanting daylilies from their gardens. It's a tradition that has been passed down for generations, and it fills my heart with peace knowing that the gardens of our grandmas are still living in our own.

Gardening is a source of joy and satisfaction for many people. The simple act of getting your hands in the ground and planting can bring happiness. Whether you're filling garden gaps, anticipating new growth, or making changes to your garden dreams, you can start transplanting family heirloom plants at any point.

The Best Time for Planting:

Late summer and autumn are ideal times for planting. The weather is cooler, and plants are preparing to enter dormancy, which reduces the stress on their root systems. However, with the right care and consideration, you can plant and transplant plants year-round, as long as you avoid extremes in temperature.

Preparing the Plant:

Before planting, it's essential to prepare the plant for its new home. Soaking the plant's root system in water with a dash of liquid seaweed acts as a tonic, stimulating the roots and reducing transplant shock. Soak the roots in water for no longer than 24 hours or overnight, ensuring they are well-hydrated before planting.

Preparing the Position:

Proper preparation of the planting position is crucial for the plant's success. Dig a hole larger than the plant and incorporate organic matter into the soil. Water the hole well to ensure the surrounding soil is hydrated and ready to support the plant.

Planting:

When planting, ensure the level of the top of the potting mix matches the ground level of the soil. If the roots are dense or root-bound, lightly tease them at the base and make a few cuts to redirect the roots into the surrounding ground. Avoid pressing around the base of the plant, as this can compact the soil and reduce air holes necessary for the root system to establish. Instead, water the plant carefully after planting to settle the soil.

Watering:

Watering is crucial for the establishment of the plant. Water the plant well and regularly, ensuring the water penetrates the soil to the base of the root system and beyond. Adding a dash of seaweed liquid to the watering can support the root system and reduce transplant shock. For plants in containers, use high-quality potting mix with organic matter.

Pointers on Transplanting:

Transplanting involves moving an existing plant to a new location in your garden. It can be done with self-seeded plants, dividing perennials, or changing the location of smaller shrubs. Deciduous plants are best transplanted while they are dormant in winter. When transplanting, dig around the plant's root zone to preserve as much of the root system as possible. Prune the plant to reduce foliage and create a balance between the above-ground and below-ground parts. Consider dividing plants to increase your plant numbers and spread them throughout your garden.

Planting and transplanting is a beautiful way to add your family's heirloom plants to your own garden. By following the pointers and tips outlined here, you can successfully navigate these processes and create a thriving garden. Don't let fear hold you back from making changes and moving plants to new locations. With care and consideration, both you and your plants will be happier for it. So go ahead, get your hands in the ground, and enjoy the joys of planting and transplanting in your garden and share the memories with generations to come.