With their delicate fern-like foliage and fluffy pink blooms mimosa trees (Albizia julibrissin) make captivating additions to landscapes. However, their rapid growth means they can quickly outgrow their space. Transplanting mimosa trees is possible with proper technique and care. Follow this straightforward guide for tips on when and how to successfully move mimosa trees to a new location.
When to Transplant Mimosa Trees
Timing is key for transplanting mimosa trees with the least amount of stress and best chance of survival. Here are the optimal times:
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Early spring – The period right before new growth begins is ideal Avoid transplanting when leaves are emerging,
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Fall – After leaf drop, when the tree is dormant, is another good option Transplant in early fall for best root establishment before winter
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While young – Small, young mimosa saplings will recover from transplanting much faster than mature specimens.
Preparing to Transplant Mimosa
Proper planning and preparation will help reduce transplant shock. Here are some tips before moving mimosa trees:
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Select a sunny, well-draining site for the new planting location.
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Dig the new planting hole at least 2 times wider than the root ball.
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Avoid transplanting during hot, dry weather. Water the tree well in advance.
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Prune the branches by 1/3 to reduce water loss after transplanting.
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Wrap roots with burlap to keep intact when digging up the tree.
How to Transplant Established Mimosa Trees
Follow these steps for moving mature mimosa trees:
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Dig a trench around the tree about 1-2 feet from the trunk to sever some roots.
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Carefully excavate the root ball, keeping as many roots intact as possible. Mimosa trees have long taproots that aid their survival.
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Place the tree onto a tarp and drag it to the new planting site.
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Set the tree in the center of the prepared hole. Do not plant it lower or higher than original level.
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Backfill the hole with native soil, tamping periodically to remove air pockets.
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Create a water well around the base and water thoroughly after planting.
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Stake the tree for the first year until established.
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Mulch around the base with 2-3 inches of organic material like wood chips or bark.
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Prune only damaged branches after transplanting. Avoid heavy pruning for 1 year.
Transplanting Containerized Mimosa Trees
For potted mimosa trees, follow these simple steps:
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Water the tree well the day before transplanting.
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Remove the tree from the container, keeping the root ball intact. Tease circling roots.
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Place in the prepared planting hole, keeping the top of the root ball even with the ground.
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Backfill with soil, water thoroughly to settle the roots.
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Stake and mulch just like ball-and-burlap transplants.
Caring for Newly Transplanted Mimosa Trees
Reduce transplant shock and help new roots establish with attentive aftercare:
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Water deeply 2-3 times per week for the first month, then weekly thereafter.
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Hold off fertilizing for 3 months after transplanting.
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Monitor for pests and disease while the tree is stressed. Treat promptly if issues arise.
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Avoid heavy pruning for at least one year after transplanting.
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Stake trees for 1-2 years until well anchored by new root growth.
Growing Conditions for Mimosa Trees
Support successful transplanting by providing the ideal conditions:
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Sun: Full sun to partial shade, at least 6 hours direct sun per day.
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Soil: Rich, well-draining soil. Sand, loam and clay all work.
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pH: 5.5-7.0
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Hardiness: Zones 6-9
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Water: Deep water 2x weekly while establishing, then taper off.
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Fertilizer: Resume balanced feeding after 3 months.
By carefully timing transplanting, preparing the tree and aftercare, you can successfully relocate mimosa trees to give them adequate room to grow. Follow these tips for the best results moving mimosa trees to a new home.
How to Dig Up Baby Mimosa Trees, pot them up, water them in, fertilize. Gardening. Transplanting
FAQ
Can you grow a mimosa tree from a cutting?
Where is the best place to plant a mimosa tree?
What is the life expectancy of a mimosa tree?
Do mimosa trees have invasive roots?
When to transplant mimosa trees?
Transplant mimosa trees if they don’t have enough room to grow, if they’re not planted in full sun or simply to site them in another part of your yard. In temperate areas, transplant the tree in either spring or fall.
How do you transplant a mimosa tree?
To transplant a mimosa tree, first prepare your site and planting hole. Place a wheelbarrow filled halfway with water and a transplanting fertilizer, like Root & Grow, next to the mimosa tree you are digging up. With a clean, sharp spade, start digging about a foot to two (0.5 m.) out from the base of the tree.
Can mimosa trees be propagated from branches?
You can propagate mimosa trees from branches, but take care when you transfer the rooted cutting into a bigger pot, and then transplant it into the ground one year later, because the mimosa can go into shock. Cut a 4 to 6-inch stem of the mimosa tree late in the spring.