| We Just Planted a 24" box Japanese blueberry tree this week. The ground is wet not sloppy the temp has been extreme 100+ degrees. The leaves are downturned and the branches are bending/drooping. What can we do? Is it transplant shock? Heat exhaustion? Too much too little water? Thanks for your speedy reply to save our tree. Cathy |
| We usually encourage gardeners to transplant in spring or autumn, when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is abundant. Transplanting in the heat of summer can cause much stress, as you've discovered. The good news is that given time, most plants adjust to their new surroundings. While your Japanese blueberry tree needs moisture on a regular basis, it also requires well-draining soil. You might want to reassess the planting site. If the soil is truly too wet, take this opportunity to move your tree to a site with soil that drains more quickly. If the ground is constantly wet, the roots will suffocate. Most newly planted trees and shrubs require about one-inch of water per week (but you may have to water twice a week if the weather is very hot). Apply water slowly so it seeps down and wets the entire rootmass, then allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again. Good luck with your tree! |
